Life Magazines (Surrey & Berkshire Editions) February 2017

Club Life

5 Great reasons why you should become a member at Stoke Park…

Celebrating 10 years in business

From the

editor Welcome to our February issue...

V

isitors can escape into the warmth of the tropical zone in the Glasshouse at RHS Garden Wisley in Surrey, for Butterflies in the Glasshouse. More butterfly species than ever before, including 15 never seen at Wisley, will be on display, including blue waves, giant swallowtails and tiger leafwing. Each of the 50 species offers a visual treat to behold, like the blue wave from Central America, whose sapphire-blue iridescent wings are delicately patterned with white.

Discover Ham House and Garden in a new light this winter as guided tours of the magnificent riverside property are offered every day from midday.

Encounter a variety experiences as each day presents a new way of seeing this iconic National Trust property.

After being welcomed by one of Ham’s knowledgeable guides, weekday visitors will be treated to one of a variety of different tours that focus on the various elements of Ham House’s history; be it a ‘behind-the scenes’ tour that allows you to follow the servant’s passage.

This February half-term children aged 8 -13 yrs can enjoy the magical delights of Painshill’s outdoor ‘wonderland’ during their popular Wild Woodland Camp. With 158 acres of natural and historic landscape, enchanted follies and a crystal Grotto, Painshill offers children the chance to discover, explore and learn in an inspiring and safe environment over the February half-term.

For dog walkers who’d like to have a walk with others now and again, why not join this pack of four-legged friends for a stroll every other Sunday at Hatchlands Park . Enjoy a wander in the park with a chance to chat and give your dogs the opportunity to show off (or practice!) their lead work and social skills.

Faye Manning Editor

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PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD 26 Bridge Road East, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, AL7 1HL, UK www.thelifemagazines.com Editor Faye Manning

Fashion Editor Hazel Englander

Accounts Kathy Manning, Ken Fleet

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Editor Assistant Katie Miller

account Manager Anita Hill

Sales James Marshall

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Sub Editor Alex Lux

Design/ Production Emma Andrews

Directors Rory Smith, Patrick Smith

LOVE LOCAL – We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month – b o x h i ll b u g s , 2 0 & 2 1 fe b r u a r y, b o x h i ll , ta d w o r t h

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UNTIL 7 MAY

SCULPTING FROM NATURE: HENRY MOORE AT THE LIGHTBOX GALLERY This will be the first major exhibition to mark The Lightbox Gallery’s 10th anniversary.

This new and unique exhibition will feature over 50 artworks by Henry Moore (18981986), perceived by many as the greatest British sculptor of the 20th century. The show will include drawings, maquettes, working models and monumental sculptures, plus prints and studio materials.

The Lightbox, Chobham Road Woking, Surrey, GU21 4AA

[events]

the calendar 11 & 14 february

Basketry Experiment with basic basketry techniques on an array of colourful willow to produce a simple attractive basket, herb platter or ‘horn of plenty’. Cost £60 includes materials, tuition and delicious lunch. 10.30am-5pm.

Eastbridge Willows, Pankridge Street, Crondall, Farnham, Surrey, GU10 5RH

17 & 24 february

Kenley Market A friendly indoor market with lots of bargains,jewellery,clothes, toys,bric a brac etc, with a cafe for you to have a cup of tea with a friend... Come and find us at Kenley. 8.30am till midday.

Menorial Hall, Godstone Road, Kenley, Surrey CR8 5AB 8 FEBRUARY 2017

UNTIL 19 february

Portrait of Violet Lindsay Violet Lindsay was one of the most glamorous social figures of the Victorian period. We are thrilled to announce that Watts Gallery Trust has acquired this beautiful Watts portrait.

Watts Gallery, Down Lane, Compton, Surrey, GU3 1DQ

3 march Course: Easy Sushi Rolls for Beginners Come and find out for yourself how easy it is to make Sushi, with food writer and local author, Sam Gates, at a fun, sushi roll lesson.

Using a mixture of smoked fish, seaweed, vegetables, rice and seed, students will make futomaki and hosomaki rolls, nigiri pieces and temari (sushi balls). No experience or culinary skills needed, just enthusiasm and a passion for sushi! All food and materials are included in the cost of the course. 10am to 12pm. £22.50.

The Guildford Institute Ward Street, , Surrey GU1 4LH

Left: Henry Moore (1898-1986), Maquette for Two Piece Sculpture No.11, 1968. Image by Henry Moore (1898-1986) and reproduced by permission of The Henry Moore Foundation

6-11, 13-18 & 20-25 February, & 27 february -4 march Polesden Lacey - Rules and Roller Skates: the perks of a life in service Rules and Roller Skates, reveals the perks of a life in service, with new servants’ areas being opened in the house. Explore the work-life balance of the staff who made their own community at Polesden Lacey.

Without the formidable Mrs. Greville in residence, the servants used this beautiful Edwardian country house as their playground. The work was hard and the standards high, but they had free rein of the grounds and took full advantage, creating their own cricket team, playing regular tennis matches, and roller skating down the corridors. Also enjoy the delicious new additions to our menu in the Granary Caf and the exciting new merchandise in our shop. Booking not needed.

10am-4pm.

Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham, near Dorking, Surrey RH5 6BD

3 march

Cobham Bric-a-brac Fair Head along to this antique and flea minimarket, held on the first Friday of each month, Selling antiques, toys, glass, china, books, clothes, jewellery, cakes, etc.

9am-3pm, free entry.

Catholic Church Hall, Downside Bridge Road, Cobham, Surrey KT11 1AA

until 5 march

23 FEBRUARY

butterflies in the glasshouse Visitors can escape into the warmth of the tropical zone in the Glasshouse at RHS Garden Wisley in Surrey, for Butterflies in the Glasshouse. More butterfly species than ever before, including 15 never seen at Wisley, will be on display, including blue waves, giant swallowtails and tiger leafwing. Each of the 50 species offers a visual treat to behold, like the blue wave from Central America, whose sapphire-blue iridescent wings are delicately patterned with white. The giant swallowtail from North America is much larger than the UK species, with a wingspan of up to 18cm.

Tiger leafwings have amazing camouflage, with tiger-like orange upperwings completely disappear when the wings close, leaving the butterfly looking remarkably like a dead leaf. These free-flying beauties will captivate visitors, as they glide around the cathedrallike building which, for a limited time, will be home to thousands of butterflies from tropical areas of the world.

RHS Wisley, Woking, Surrey, GU23 6QB

WATTS 200: A Celebration of the Life and Work of G F Watts To mark the bicentenary of the birth of ‘England’s Michelangelo’ – the enduring epithet conferred upon G F Watts by his close friend, Frederic, Lord Leighton – in 2017 the Watts Gallery Trust will encourage new ways of thinking about the artist to explore his legacy and influence today.

Launching on Watts’s birthday, 23 February, highlights of the 2017 programme include an unprecedented display of the artist’s epic murals, an unparalleled exhibition of masterpieces by Watts from public and private collections, a concert of music beloved by the artist and his eminent friends, and a conference focusing on Science and Art in Victorian Britain. www.wattsgallery.org.uk

“More butterfly species than ever before, including 15 never seen at Wisley”

12 february

Wedding Fair at the Hilton Cobham If you are getting married this year or next, put this wedding fir in your diary for February. Located in the heart of Surrey and just 25 miles from London, the gorgeous Hilton Cobham hotel is set amid acres of beautiful countryside including the hotel’s own one-mile long Woodland Area. The rich warm décor make this a perfect venue for a Prestige Wedding Fair, so come along and choose from a wide range of local wedding suppliers and see the Bridal Fashion Shows at 12.30pm and 2.30pm. Ther is free entry and parking. Open 11am-3.30pm, Free Entry.

Hilton Hotel, Cobham, Seven Hills Road South, Cobham, Surrey KT11 1EW

12 february

The Music Of Horace Silver Riverside Arts Jazz February’s Riverside Arts Jazz puts a fabulous quintet together to play the music of Horace Silver. Graeme Flowers is on the trumpet, Vasilis Xenopoulos -on saxophone, Terence Collie playing piano and Chris Draper on the drums. 7.30pm.

Riverside Arts Centre, 59 Thames Street, Sunbury-on-Thames, Surrey TW16 5QF FEBRUARY 2017 9

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ALL MONTH

the GREAT

OUTDOORS

Outdoor events making the most of Surrey and Berkshire

22 & 26 february

11-14 february

Claremont Landscape Garden - Valentine Lovers’ Walk Enjoy a romantic Valentine’s walk with a regal twist. Hang a memento for your loved one at the venerable old beech known as the “kissing tree”, then follow a specially decorated trail taking in period features such as the turf amphitheatre and serpentine lake.

Read quotes along the walk to discover the heart-warming story of Charlotte’s romance with her beloved Prince Leopold. Booking not needed. 10am-4pm.

Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher, Surrey KT10 9JG 10 FEBRUARY 2017

WINTER TOURS AT HAM HOUSE AND GARDEN Discover Ham House and Garden in a new light this winter as guided tours of the magnificent riverside property are offered every day from midday. Encounter a variety experiences as each day presents a new way of seeing this iconic National Trust property. After being welcomed by one of Ham’s knowledgeable guides, weekday visitors will be treated to one of a variety of different tours that focus on the various elements of Ham House’s history; be it a ‘behind-thescenes’ tour that allows you to follow the servant’s passage, a tour that focuses on the work of Joshua Reynolds or even an iconic object in focus. Visitors welcomed at the weekend will get a taste of the interiors on one of the property’s highlight tours, discover more about the garden on a garden history tour or learn about the various architectural changes that created the building that exists today.

Ham House, Ham St, Richmond-upon-Thames TW10 7RS

Polesden Lacey: Trust10 10K runs Are you a regular runner looking for a challenge’ Our 10k trail runs give you the opportunity to train for the next big event, or keep fit whilst enjoying the beautiful surroundings of some of our special places. The route at Polesden Lacey will consist of a variety of terrains and will take the runners through Ranmore Common - it will be a real treat for experienced runners and beginners alike! It is not a competitive event and is not timed. Just turn up with friends, family or on your own to run with other like-minded runners. Booking not needed. 9am-11am.

Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham, near Dorking, Surrey, RH5 6BD

26 february

Hatchlands Park - Paws in the park For dog walkers who’d like to have a walk with others now and again, why not join this pack of four-legged friends for a stroll every other Sunday. Enjoy a wander in the park with a chance to chat and give your dogs the opportunity to show off (or practice!) their lead work and social skills. The first ten arrivals each day can enjoy a well-earned complimentary cuppa at the Coach House Cafe. 11.30am-1pm.

Meet at Hatchlands Park reception building. The walking route for each Sunday will be posted at reception so that any late arrivals will be able to catch up.

Hatchlands Park, East Clandon, Guildford, Surrey GU4 7RT

Normal admission charges apply (Free to National Trust members) Adult £11.90 Child £5.95 Family £29.70

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A day at the races We’ve been blessed with some beautiful, crisp British winter days now that the winter chill has well and truly arrived and what better way to make the most of the weather than by booking a day out for friends and family

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day at the races showcases the thrill of watching top class human and equine athletes pushing themselves to the limit with the fun of choosing a horse to bet on. Plus, there’s the opportunity to enjoy great food and drink and extra activities on the racecourse.

Sandown Park racecourse was founded in 1875 and has provided the backdrop to some of the greatest moments in racing. It is situated in a prime location in the lush countryside of Esher and is serviced by trains to London Waterloo and Guilford (both 30 minutes), and has plentiful parking on site.

Over the coming months Sandown Park will host top class jump racing. On 10 and 11 March the racecourse hosts the Grand Military and Imperial Cup days. The Grand Military Day celebrates the bravery and dedication of the British Armed Forces.

It features the Grand Military Gold Cup, where some of the country’s finest amateur jockeys battle it out for the prestigious prize. There will also be a host of entertainment throughout the afternoon, including music from the military band and the magnificent spectacle of a parade of hunt hounds.

Imperial Cup day is a highlight in Sandown Park’s jump racing calendar. It features two Grade 3 races, including the Imperial Cup. This is just three days before the Cheltenham Festival begins, so the racecourse is creating its own Cheltenham atmosphere - tweed will be encouraged! There is also a Cheltenham Preview Panel after racing, for racegoers to get their bets lined up for the following week of jump racing action.

Sandown Park brings the British Jump season to a close on 29 April, with the bet365 Jump Finale.

12 FEBRUARY 2017

This day features some of the best jump racing of the season including a Grade 1 Steeple Chase and guarantees to attract the human and equine stars of the season. On top of this, racegoers are also treated to the Parade of Champions, post-racing entertainment and the End of Season Awards.

Racing doesn’t end with the Jump season though, Sandown Park hosts top level Flat racing through the spring and summer, which includes the (Grade 1) Coral Eclipse on 8 July. The racecourse hosts some quality mid-week evening racing through the summer months and the Gentlemen’s Day on 17 June and Ladies Day on 7 July are sure to attract some stylish racegoers. Events at the racecourse aren’t just about the racing, on 10 August Olly Murs will be performing live after racing at Sandown Park.

Now’s the time to organise your friends and family for day out that promises top quality sporting action at your local racecourse.

More information and tickets for racing is available at www.sandown.co.uk

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Wisley Spring Plant Fair Kick start your gardening year with the Wisley Spring Plant Fair, 24-26 March 2017

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ick up quality plants including shrubs, herbaceous perennials, and edible alternatives from specialist growers and nurseries. New gardeners and experienced plantsmen alike can find growing information from specialist plant societies and our expert gardening advisors. The fair brings together more than 30 specialist growers and nurseries.

Fair highlights • Choose from a large range of plants including summer bulbs, roses, woodland and alpines, cacti and tropical, perennials and climbers plus herbs and vegetables.

• Find rare and heritage plants you won’t find elsewhere.

• The diverse range of stalls includes small independent nurseries and rare and unusual plant specialists - some of our exhibitors will be exhibiting at the RHS Chelsea Flower show this year.

• Meet the RHS Gardening Advice team during the plant fair and have your gardening queries answered by our friendly experts. All welcome.

Make a day of it Why not make a day of it and enjoy one of our other spring events or a walk around the Garden around Battleston Hill or the Wild Garden?

25 & 26 March: Shohin Bonsai weekend featuring the National Suseki show.

Spring Plant Fair opening times: 9.30am - 4.30pm. RHS members go free, non-members pay normal garden admission.

RHS Garden, Wisley, Wisley Lane, Wisley, Woking GU23 6QB

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Club Life

5 Great reasons why you should become a member at Stoke Park… FEBRUARY 2017 19

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1. Price!

Despite being an Exclusive Members Club, there is real value to be had in the different memberships we offer. For example, our 7 Day Golf Membership is available for new members at just £3,500 per annum. This gives members access to our 27 Hole Championship Golf Course and extensive practice facilities. Likewise, with over 50 studio classes to choose from, unlimited use of our state-of-the-art gym and indoor swimming pool, for only £148 per month, our ever popular Health Membership represents excellent value as well. This is before you receive various discounts throughout the club on food, beverages and spa treatments by using the levy system we have in place.

2. Continual Investment As a 5 AA Red Star venue, the bar is always set very high with the facilities that we offer to our members, and as such we need to constantly invest in them so that our members’ expectations are always exceeded. Over the past 2 years, we have completely refurbished our 4,000 sq ft gym and installed state-of-the-art Star Trac equipment, reopened our Front 9 holes following an extensive bunker renovation project (holes 10-18 are currently being re-furbished and will open in April) , opened the fabulous Spa Gardens with an Outdoor Hot

Tub and Scandinavian Sauna overlooking the stunning gardens, re-furbished the Indoor Tennis Courts and re-designed our Halfway House so that Golfers can enjoy a varied selection of refreshments. With more exciting projects also underway, there is no better time to become a member at Stoke Park.

3. Rich in Heritage If it’s being a member of a club rich in heritage and history that excites you most, then Stoke Park will tick all of the right boxes for you. Founded in 1908, Stoke Park is the UK’s very first Country Club and encircling the club’s beautiful 300 acre Buckinghamshire estate is the famous 27 Hole Championship golf course, undisputedly one of the finest parkland courses in the country. Created by eminent golf architect Harry Colt, the Stoke Park course has been the inspiration for many of the world’s most famous holes, including Augusta’s infamous 16th.

The course itself has seen many impressive rounds in its prestigious history, including the first PGA Matchplay tournament in 1910 and James Bond’s epic golfing duel in the 1964 classic 007 movie ‘Goldfinger’.

4. A Hub of Social Activity One thing we say to any prospective member at Stoke Park is that membership with us is a lifestyle choice. It is far more than just a Gym or a Golf Membership. Being a member with us gives you the opportunity to attend over 50 wonderful social events throughout the year including our Summer Ball, Christmas Parties and The Boodles Tennis that features several of the Top 20 Male Tennis players in the world. Stoke Park is a very friendly place and our aim is to always exceed our guests expectations and make everyone feel immediately at home.

For Golf members, there are regular competitions, medals and weekly roll-ups that you are encouraged to participate in, all part of the passion we have for making sure that members become well entrenched in Club life. You can also entertain family, friends or top clients in one of our three excellent restaurants - San Marco’s, The

20 FEBRUARY 2017

What the press said about Stoke Park in 2016 and awards won!..

‘Best Spa Hotels in Britain’ – The Times, January 2017 ‘Best Luxury Spas in the UK’ - The Independent, January 2017 ‘Refurbishment has helped Stoke Park offer parkland golf at its best!’

- Today’s Golfer, November 2016 ‘Best Spa Hotels in the UK’ - Harpers Bazaar, September 2016

“If it’s being a member of a club rich in heritage and history that excites you most, then Stoke Park will tick all of the right boxes for you”

‘Best Sporting Venue’ - UK Wedding Awards 2016 ‘No. 1 Best Wedding Venue just outside of London’ - Evening Standard, June 2016 Winner- Executive Chef Chris Wheeler - Hotel Chef of the Year (over 250 covers) - Hotel Cateys 2016

Orangery and Humphry’s – our three AA rosette fine dining restaurant.

5. Family Friendly Facilities At Stoke Park, we pride ourselves on our award-winning facilities that cater for the entire family. With a newly opened outdoor adventure playground, fantastic indoor games room along with our beautiful indoor swimming pool, 13 multi-surface tennis courts and superb events for Children throughout the year, it’s clear to see why

The Daily Telegraph recently voted us as a ‘Top 10 Family Hotel in England’.

With a variety of wonderful Membership options at Stoke Park, if you are interested in discussing the Individual or Corporate opportunities available, or would like to arrange a tour of our fantastic facilities, then please contact the Membership Sales team on 01753 717179 or email membership@stokepark.com.

Stoke Park is situated only a 20 minute drive from Windsor and 35 minutes from Ascot. www.stokepark.com

Winner- Executive Chef Chris Wheeler - Chef of the Year - Berkshire and Buckinghamshire Life Food and Drink Awards 2016 Winner- Humphry’s - Best Fine Dining Restaurant - Buckinghamshire Food and Drink Awards 2016 ‘Best of Britain’ - Tatler Restaurant Guide 2016 ‘A stay at this grand country house hotel is about as good as it gets.’

- Marie Claire, December 2016 ‘Ultimate 100 Best British Hotels 2016’ - The Sunday Times, October 2016 ‘For a respite with British refinement, whether it’s food, spa, or sport- there’s no place quite like Stoke Park!’

- Luxurious Magazine, October 2016.

‘Golf Resort of the Year’ - Square Mile Awards ‘No wonder the resort has claimed more awards than Team GB at the Olympics’ - Today’s Golfer, November 2016 ‘Best Tennis Hotel in England’ - Red Magazine, June 2016 Ultimate Members Club - Club59 Awards

FEBRUARY 2017 21

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Butterflies to create a rainbow of delights at RHS Garden Wisley 15 new species never before seen on display in the Glasshouse • More than 6,000 exotic butterflies in a tropical paradise • From the delicate Glasswing to the striking Blue Morpho

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isitors can escape into the warmth of the tropical zone in the Glasshouse at RHS Garden Wisley in Surrey, for Butterflies in the Glasshouse, 14 January to 5 March 2017. More butterfly species than ever before, including 15 never seen at Wisley, will be on display, including blue waves, giant swallowtails and tiger leafwing.

Each of the 50 species offers a visual treat to behold, like the blue wave from Central America, whose sapphire-blue iridescent wings are delicately patterned with white. The giant swallowtail from North America at first looks similar to its cousin the UK swallowtail. It is however, as its name suggests, 22 FEBRUARY 2017

much larger with a wingspan of up to 18cm (double that of the UK species). Tiger leafwings have amazing camouflage, with tiger-like orange upperwings completely disappear when the wings close, leaving the butterfly looking remarkably like a dead leaf.

These free-flying beauties will captivate visitors, as they glide around the cathedral-like building which, for a limited time, will be home to thousands of butterflies from tropical areas of the world such as Central and South America and Southeast Asia.

“For me, having Butterflies in the Glasshouse is the perfect antidote for the midwinter blues and provides a welcome escape to tropical climes,”

“These free-flying beauties will captivate visitors, as they glide around the cathedral-like building”

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says Christopher J Young, Glasshouse Team Leader, who is responsible for managing the successful operation of the Glasshouse and organising the transition of the butterflies from when they arrive on site in their pupae, to emerging in their colourful glory in the Glasshouse.

In the tropical zone, the horticulturists have designed an environment similar to a rainforest that mimics the perfect conditions to allow huge leaves and flowers to grow. Visitors will also find banana plants, bromeliads, palm trees and climbers, as well as aquatic and wetland plants floating in the jungle pool. Visitors can take a tour through the world of plants on display and catch a glimpse of the extensive range of wild species as well as garden hybrids and cultivars. There will be myriad vibrant colours to marvel at, creating superb photographic opportunities.

Visitors can also become butterfly experts and learn all about the life cycle of a butterfly in our interactive Education Zone. Children are encouraged to enter our drawing competition to be in with a chance to have their winning design created into a 30 x 30cm metal butterfly sculpture.

It will go on display from 11 February – 6 March (the last date for competition entries is 23 January; full details will be made available online). To mark the launch weekend on 14 and 15 January, willow sculptures will be created and visitors will get the chance to decorate them before they go on display in the dry temperate zone in the Glasshouse.

There will also be a special sculpture trail throughout the garden leading towards the Glasshouse, created by artist Alison Catchlove.

Visitors will get the chance to see Alison demonstrating her extraordinary skills as a sculptor in the Glasshouse Gallery every Friday – Sunday during the event.

During February Half Term, 11 – 19 February, there will be a range of free family events focused on Whatever the Weather for Butterflies, with activities such as create your own butterfly watering can, make a bubble-art butterfly or bring in your outgrown wellington boots to decorate and plant up with flower seeds.

On selected dates we are running tutored butterfly photography mornings (26 January, 1 &

“The horticulturists have designed an environment similar to a rainforest that mimics the perfect conditions to allow huge leaves and flowers to grow”

10 February). These workshops are ideal for any budding photographer keen to learn how to capture beautiful images of our tropical butterflies with expert advice from tutor Adrian Davies. On 24 February we will be running an untutored butterfly 24 FEBRUARY 2017

photography morning, all courses are charged and include early access (spaces limited).

Make the most of your day out by selecting a timed ticket to beat the queues and don’t forget to stop by the Glasshouse Café for a tasty teatime treat inspired by these winged beauties, including butterfly-decorated cookies and cupcakes and refreshments. Or the Wisley Gift Shop and Plant Centre for a souvenir to remember your day.

Entry to Butterflies in the Glasshouse is free with normal garden entry. Adults £14, Children 5 – 16 years £7. Family 2+2 (2 adults + 2 children) £36. Free for RHS members, for full details visit rhs.org.uk/wisley

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The Art of Sidney Sime

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Artist and Philosopher

he work of the late 19th century artist Sidney Sime will be exhibited at the Lightbox gallery and museum in Woking for the first time from 15 April – 28 May 2017. This will be the biggest ever exhibition of the artist’s work and include many recently restored paintings and illustrations from the collection based in Worplesdon. The exhibition ‘The Art of Sidney Sime, Artist and Philosopher’ will explore the life of Sidney H Sime (1865 – 1941), one of the greatest imaginative artists since Blake, renowned for his book and magazine illustrations, paintings and drawings. His art was shaped by his journey from the coal pits of Lancashire to the world of aristocracy, of the artistes of the London clubs, theatres and music halls. Sime’s fascination with imaginary beasts, hell and the afterlife is in sharp contrast to his Scottish landscapes and later quiet life in Worplesdon, drawing caricatures in the local inn.

All this can be traced in fine black and white illustrations, theatrical caricatures of actors’

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comedians and singers, drawings of bogey beasts, dramatic oils of apocalyptic proportions, and humorous sketches of ordinary men doing everyday jobs in a marvellous display that has become an important local piece of social history.

Although his reputation languished for many years, and despite the encouragement of his two aristocratic patrons, Lord Howard de Walden and Lord Dunsany, to exhibit his works publicly, Sime’s reticence and desire for anonymity mostly prevailed.

His philosophy of life resulted from a ‘profound inquisition into the minds of men’ and his great and active brain. His exceptional and original fancy, his penetrating invention and his delicious humour earned for him the distinction of ‘genius’.

“I don’t like the idea of his being forgotten only to be rediscovered in a hundred years hence....I am determined that he should be recognized in spite of himself ”, wrote Lord Howard de Walden following Sime’s death. The purpose built Sime Art Gallery at Worplesdon Memorial Hall from where the exhibits have been selected is home to over 800 items of

paintings, drawings and memorabilia by Sime, bequeathed to the Trustees by his widow Mary.

The Trustees of the Sime Gallery in Worplesdon and Ewbank’s Auctioneers of Send thank The Lightbox gallery and museum for hosting this exhibition to celebrate the memory of and to ‘rediscover’ the Art of Sime. The Trustees are indebted to Ewbank’s Auctioneers for their generous sole sponsorship of the exhibition and to NADFAS,GEDFAS, Surrey Museums, Worplesdon Parish Council, Guildford Borough Council, Friends of Guildford House, and individual donors who have supported restoration and conservation of the works shown. ‘The Art of Sidney Sime, Artist and Philosopher’ will be on show at The Lightbox, from the 15 April 2017-28 May 2017. For further information please visit thelightbox.org.uk. The Lightbox, Chobham Road, Woking, Surrey, GU21 4AA

Clockwise from top left: Sidney Sime (1865-1941) Illustrative, circa, 1920, Oil © The Estate of Sidney Sime; Sidney Sime (1865-1941) Fountain and Figures, circa 1920, Oil © The Estate of Sidney Sime; Sidney Sime (1865-1941) Miss Vesta Tilly, circa 1896, Pen, and watercolour © The Estate of Sidney Sime; Sidney Sime (1865-1941) Old King Cole, circa 1903, Pen and Ink, © The Estate of Sidney Sime; Sidney Sime (1865-1941) The Waterfall, circa 1900, Oil © The Estate of Sidney Sime; Sidney Sime (1865-1941) Sidney Sime Self Portrait, circa 1900, Oil, © The Estate of Sidney Sime

“I don’t like the idea of his being forgotten only to be rediscovered in a hundred years hence....I am determined that he should be recognized in spite of himself”

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Desire Jewellery andreturns Silversmithing Fair to Chelsea Old Town Hall C helsea Old Town Hall will be the venue for the superb Desire Fair from 3-5 March. This stunning mixed media jewellery and silversmithing event where visitors can purchase direct from contemporary designer makers selected from the best in the UK is an event not to be missed.

Desire offers visitors a choice of around 90 individual jewellers and silversmiths who have been selected for their superb and innovative craftsmanship and have a genuine passion for the work they create. Visitors can see and purchase from an exciting range from both emerging British talent as well as more established designer makers.

Exhibitors include jewellers working in gold, silver, platinum, palladium, aluminium, bronze, copper, titanium, cellulose acetate and glass and incorporating gemstones, seaglass, buttons, pearls, glass, enamelwork, silk threads and beads into their work.

Silversmiths include Jen Ricketts who creates intricate hand-pierced functional silverware of city

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OPENING TIMES

Opening times for the event are 10 am – 6 pm Friday, 10 am – 5 pm Saturday and Sunday.

ADMISSION Admission is £6.

FURTHER INFORMATION skylines and Brett Payne with his range of handforged candlesticks and tableware.

Anyone celebrating a special occasion – maybe a birthday or anniversary - may also like to speak to many of the makers about commissioning bespoke pieces of jewellery or silverware. Several visitors in the past have commissioned engagement or wedding rings at the event and, by working with the designer maker, have been able to have input into the design and come up with something that means so much more and is completely individual.

Many of the makers will also be happy to speak about remodelling old jewellery to give it a more contemporary feel.

Whether you are looking to treat yourself, purchase a unique gift for someone special or commission something for a special occasion, make a date to visit Desire at Chelsea. This year we have arranged a special reader offer for free entry to the event, see the Desire advert within the magazine.

For further information contact the organisers on 01622 747 325 or visit the web site at www.desirefair.com.

Venue Old Town Hall, King’s Road, London, SW3 5EE

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Hit The Slopes!

CELEBRATE THE LAUNCH OF THEIR NEW CHILDREN’S SKI DEPARTMENT

Images courtesy of Perfect Moment

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ake sure your little ones are all wrapped up this winter as Harrods welcome you to their new Children’s Ski Room. The department, which will cater to all of your little ones’ ski trip needs, launches this winter. From super warm outerwear to fashion forward ski accessories, the department will champion collections from a handful of much loved outdoor sports brands.

The space will offer ranges from Canada Goose, and for the first season, ski brand Bogner will be available at Harrods for little snow bunnies. As well as this, the space will see the exciting launch

“The space will offer ranges from Canada Goose, and for the first season, ski brand Bogner will be available at Harrods” of two new brands. Perfect Moment, ski clothing that brings fashion to function, and Shred, offering the finishing touch to any outfit with their helmets and goggles built for extreme performance and protection.

The Children’s Ski Room will offer collections from 4 – 16 years, and is situated in the Childrenswear Department on the 4th floor.

And for you Mums that want to look as trendy as your kids on the slopes, you can stay chic in the snow with Harrods range of designer ski wear and women’s ski jackets from luxury brands including Fendi, Canada 30 FEBRUARY 2017

Goose, Woolrich and Harrods of London.

And not forgetting Daddy – he can step into ski season with Harrods designer ski wear and men’s ski jackets from key brands including Canada Goose, Woolrich, Bogner and more.

Harrods 87-135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, SW1X 7XL. You can also purchase online at www.harrods.com

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A museum for haslemere, not of haslemere

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aslemere is a quaint and charming market town, steeped in history and the award winning Museum with its remarkable collections of natural history, human history and geology is well worth a visit. Set in the heart of Haslemere, in an elegant Georgian building with beautiful extensive gardens, the rich and diverse collections have been inspiring visitors for more than one hundred years.

The Museum was founded in 1888 by Sir Jonathan Hutchinson FRS, an eminent London surgeon. He set up a country home in the town and had a passion for collecting objects. He built up an extraordinary collection of artefacts, purchased at auction and on overseas travel, which he initially displayed in the grounds of his home. He was determined to demonstrate that museums could be of great educational value and invited local people to visit his private museum at Inval, however these became so popular, that by 1895 he had to move his museum into the town.

Curator, Julia Tanner explains: “Sir Jonathan is considered to have revolutionised the role of museums in education. He made his collections accessible to everyone and encouraged a deeper understanding of our world through study and handling of objects.”

When Sir Jonathan died in 1913, he left his museum to the town. Today Haslemere Educational Museum is one of the largest Museums in South East England and the artefacts he collected from all over the world are a rich resource of local, national and international heritage.

Julia adds: “Our collections fall into three broad categories, Geology, Natural History and Human History with a dedicated gallery for each.

They relate to a vast time period and a worldwide geographic area” The Geology Gallery contains a fine array

32 FEBRUARY 2017

“The Museum was founded in 1888

by Sir Jonathan Hutchinson FRS, an eminent London surgeon”

of rocks, minerals and fossils including some fascinating ichthyosaur fossils and insects beautifully preserved in amber. In complete contrast the Natural History Gallery’s Edwardian decor deliberately captures the essence of that era and has magnificent taxidermy specimens fashionable at that time. Great favourites with children are the butterfly collection, and of course the Museum’s mascot ‘Arthur’ the Siberian Brown given by the Sisson family in the 1930s.

The Human History Collection artefacts on display are from the key British historical periods, from the Stone Age to the Victorian era and two prominent overseas collections. The remarkable Ancient Egyptian Collection is displayed in its own room and the European Peasant Arts Collection contains beautifully painted household objects and intricately embroidered textiles, mostly from North-Eastern Europe and dates from the 16th century. Their designs became the inspiration for Haslemere’s own Arts & Crafts movement in the early 1900s.

There are two rooms for temporary exhibitions as well as a Library and an Archive which are superb sources of information. The premises also boast a glorious rear garden, the landscaping of which dates back to the late 1700s. There is a gazebo which overlooks a pond and observation beehive where bees can be seen working during the summer months. The Museum has a wonderful tradition of learning for all ages and offers a lively programme of events and exhibitions throughout the year.

Thoughtfully, Julia concludes: “The collections have always been at the core of our mission and support educational programming to inspire learning through objects. The Museum has enormous appeal, and is as Sir Jonathan Hutchinson intended, it is more a Museum for Haslemere than one of Haslemere.”

A truly fascinating Museum.

Haslemere Educational Museum, 78 High Street, Haslemere, Surrey, GU27 2LA. 01428 642112 www.haslemeremuseum.co.uk.

Open Tuesday to Saturday 10am – 5pm Admission by Donation

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Cosmic forces at work in Albury Vineyard

Everyone knows there’s nowt like old fashioned farmyard muck to get roses blooming and crops flourishing. But a single bucketful of cow poo to fertilise a whole 12 acres of vineyard? This is not your average muck spreading spree.

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lbury Organic Vineyard on the chalk slopes of the North Downs next to the Silent Pool in Albury, was recently the scene of a fertility ritual.

The practice itself only dates back to 1924, but it draws on a concept of harmony in nature that goes back millennia: A pile of clean, hollowed-out horns from female cows lay waiting for a team of enthusiastic helpers to fill them from that one bucket of fresh organic cow dung.

This ritual is fundamental to the practice of biodynamic agriculture founded by the Austrian philosopher and social reformer Rudolf Steiner who promoted ‘spiritual science’ in the 1920s. His biodynamic agriculture was the first of the organic agriculture movements and dealt holistically with the whole natural circle of soil, plants and animals, including, importantly, cosmic forces.

Nick Wenman is one of a growing band of vineyard owners who believes in the power of biodynamic farming for soil fertility and plant health, though he is a rarity in the UK. However, Tesco is one of several major UK supermarkets which follow the biodynamic calendar when the buyers do their wine tasting. The year is divided up according to the lunar influence into leaf, flower, root and fruit days and fruit days are regarded as the most auspicious for wine drinking. It is believed that the wine actually tastes better on fruit days.

Back to those cow horns, each now neatly packed with poo. Nick and his team carried them up through the vines to a pit he had prepared earlier, where they were laid carefully to rest, mouths pointing down so that they did not fill with rainwater and go mushy over the winter.

They were covered with soil and the burial finished with a pile of stones to deter animals. And there they will stay until April or May, when they will be lifted out again and their precious contents emptied out.

By then, the manure will have a completely different consistency – dark and crumbly and 34 FEBRUARY 2017

according to biodynamic principles, packed with cosmic forces. Finally, cricket ball sized roundels of the dung are dissolved in barrels of water and the liquid gets sprayed on the vineyard. Like homeopathic medicine, a little is said to go a very long way.

“We bury horns at three places around the vineyard,” said Nick. “The horns are from female cows as they are the most fertile animals and they absorb the cosmic influences. The best way to describe it is that when we spray it, even though it is only a tiny amount, it acts as a trigger to regenerate tired soil and improve its fertility.”

He has seen at first hand in France and Australia the difference between the quality of soil on biodynamic vineyards and that on chemically sprayed ones. It is the difference between living and dead soils, he says. Many of the great vineyards and wineries around the world are convinced by the biodynamic approach, including Domaine Leflaive and le Roy in Burgundy, Culee de Serant in the Loire, Beaux Freres in Oregon, Hensche in Australia and Jean-Pierre Fleury in Champagne.

“Biodynamic practices in the vineyard encourage a natural harmony between the earth, the vine and the cosmos as nature intended, without the need to use systemic chemicals. We believe that this results in a more naturally healthy bio-diverse and sustainable vineyard, producing better quality fruit and ultimately better quality wine, with a unique sense or place or terroir.”

And what better evidence for the efficacy of biodynamic agriculture than prizes! Albury Vineyard has won two Gold Awards this year for its sparkling wines in the International Organic Wine Awards 2016. These top awards for Albury Estate Blanc de Blancs and Albury Estate Classic Cuvée came hard on the heels of silvers and bronzes in the Decanter Wine Awards and International Wine Challenge competitions.

Albury Vineyard, Silent Pool, Shere Road, Albury, Surrey GU5 9BW. 07768 863650 www.alburyvineyard.com

“The horns are from female cows as they are the most fertile animals and they absorb the cosmic influences”

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New floral concierge service for your home

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repared bouquets of flowers all lack one thing; a sense of you. House of Flowers is a luxurious floral concierge service which delivers freshly cut flowers directly to your door. The four bespoke Collections of stems enable you to arrange and rearrange the flowers as many times as you like to suit your style, events, and interior décor. With your choice of delivery every week, fortnight, or month, this unique delivery service allows you to add that special something to your arrangement; a sense of you.

styled with the freshest stems throughout the seasons, you’ll have an endless ability to create something totally original with each delivery.

One Size Doesn’t Fit All

From Flower Selection to Delivery

The House of Flowers Collections are categorised according to size. The largest, the Buckingham, is perfect as one showstopping arrangement or divided into smaller creations throughout your home. The Blenheim is both versatile and stunning making it ideal for up to two creations or multiple smaller arrangements. Finally, the Chatsworth and Highclere are abundantly bold and thoughtfully selected so you can create a harmonious arrangement to enhance your décor.

House of Flowers take pride in each step of their service. The floral architects carefully select each of the stems to produce versatile collections. The brand also have their own internal uniformed concierge team to ensure delivery week after week without delay. This attention to detail creates a luxurious experience so you can spend more time enjoying your fine flowers. If you want WOW in your life, you have found it.

Covering towns throughout Berkshire, Surrey, and Buckinghamshire, you can register now to become a member with your choice of weekly, fortnightly, or monthly delivery of floral haute couture direct to your door. Officially launching in January 2017 you can also purchase a gift voucher for that special someone in your life.

Start creating and think outside the box with House of Flowers floral concierge, find out more online at www.hof.direct.

Flowers How You Want Them The Collections arrive as a bunch of stems in luxurious packaging, protected by monogrammed tissue paper, ready to be arranged however you would like. Encouraging members to share the results of their creations to inspire others, the floral concierge company also have ideas and inspiration on their website to get you started. While each Collection is 36 FEBRUARY 2017

Everything You Need In addition to offering four beautiful collections of flowers, House of Flowers also have an online shop where members can supplement their deliveries with à la carte stems and supplies. This shop is perfect if you’re looking to extend your creations to more vases or get the perfect container to display the stems.

“Put the WOW and surprise factor back in your life, weekly, fortnightly or monthly!”

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38 FEBRUARY 2017

LOVE LOC AL

The world’s largest LEGO Store opens in Leicester Square The LEGO Group, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of play materials, has officially opened its new UK flagship store in Leicester Square

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he largest LEGO store in the world boasts exciting new experiences, such as a ‘Mosaic Maker’ which offers LEGO fans of all ages the opportunity to purchase their very own, one of a kind, personalised LEGO mosaic portrait. The machine captures your image and in under ten minutes printed instructions and the bricks required to complete the LEGO portrait are supplied to the customer. The London store is the first in the world to make this unique experience available.

“Inspiring creativity and developing the builders of tomorrow is a central theme for the store” Inspiring creativity and developing the builders of tomorrow is a central theme for the store and this is encouraged with unique hands-on interactive brick experiences. These include ‘Master Builder Playtables’, where children will be free to build whatever they can imagine - inspired by iconic London landmarks and a range of exciting LEGO themes.

Through a partnership with Transport for London, LEGO has created a life-sized London Underground tube carriage. The tube is the largest LEGO build in the store, is made up of 637,903 bricks and took 3,399 hours to build. The carriage offers fun photo opportunities and is a must see for all the family.

40 FEBRUARY 2017

Other highlights within the new London LEGO Store include: • Build a Minifigure Tower with Talking LEGO Minifigures – includes four different talking LEGO Minifigures including Lester, Royal Guard, Bobby the Policeman and Sherlock Holmes • LEGO Minifigure Scanner – an interactive experience available from outside the store where people can find out which LEGO Minifigure they are • Digital window display - state of the art screens that show LEGO movies and clips • Brickadilly corner – an interactive information centre informing shoppers of in-store event schedules and highlighting retail experiences within the store • Digital endless isle – a digital experience allowing shoppers to browse a digital catalogue of all LEGO sets available in store.

LEGO STORE, 3 SWISS COURT, LONDON W1D 6AP. Tel: 0207 839 3480 Opening hours: Mon-Sat: 10:00am – 10pm; Sunday: 12noon-6pm. For more news from the LEGO Group, please visit www.LEGO.com

PROSPECTIVE DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY Groveland Planning Ltd, Surrey UK Investments Ltd. and Wowhaus Design Ltd. have a combined experience of 60 years in the planning, design and property development industries.

Your property is of particular interest to us, as we believe it meets the criteria for some exciting opportunities that have arisen, due to current market conditions. We have experience in this area and have undertaken numerous proposals, including the conversion of existing buildings and the complete re-development of properties, resulting in a significant increased overall value.

We specialise in identifying development opportunities, offering bespoke design solutions, together with extensive planning knowledge, that can be tailored to individual needs. We have a strong financial framework and business model, created to meet each vendor’s requirements, including an opportunity to agree an “option”, whereby a mutual agreement is made to purchase the property once certain contingencies have been met.

We would welcome the opportunity to discuss this with you in further detail at our offices in Cobham High Street. Alternatively, we would be happy to visit you at your property at a time of your convenience. Meetings can be arranged by phone or email. Please feel free to contact us with any possible queries you may have.

1A High Street, Cobham, KT11 3DH

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42 FEBRUARY 2017

Perfect your pout with lip filler at the Light Touch Clinic

Our lip experts Dr Natalie Blakely and Janine Scott RGN can gently rejuvenate and plump your lips with natural results.

Book a lip filler treatment this month and receive a complimentary Instant Effects Lip Plumper to hydrate and plump on the go.

Don’t forget to quote Life Magazines when you make your consultation!

T: 01932 849552 E: info@lighttouchclinic.co.uk Light Touch Clinic, 50 Church Street, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 8DS www.lighttouchclinic.co.uk

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SPRING CLASSICS Enjoy a feast of favourites at Charterhouse Hall on Sunday March 26 at 7pm

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SO loves having the opportunity to welcome back soloists who have struck up a good rapport with the orchestra and we are thrilled to have the very exciting young violinist Joo Yeon Sir return to perform the Sibelius with us.

You may have heard Joo Yeon Sir play when she was one of the soloists at the 2014 Young Artists Concert. She produced an extraordinarily accomplished performance of Saint-Saens’ Introduction and Rondo Capriccioso and her interpretation of the Sibelius is going to be stunning.

The concerto, written in 1904 is symphonic in scope with the solo violin an equal voice with the orchestra sections. The original composition was fiendishly demanding for the soloist and the revised version played here still requires a high level of technical Beethoven: facility. Listen out for the extended Overture - Consecration fanfares and exciting the crowd until cadenza! of the House it reaches a brilliant finale.

Beethoven wrote the Sibelius: Violin Concerto The concert concludes with Consecration of the House Schubert: Symphony No 9 the Great C Major – Schubert’s Overture to mark the opening The Great C Major Symphony No 9, and it really is a of a new theatre in Vienna and it work on a grand scale, thought to be has echoes of Handel with a slow his finest piece for orchestra and one of march of the imaginary procession his most innovative compositions. Schubert gathering pace with trumpets and is famous for writing lieder and he has put melody at the forefront of this symphony- yes, there are great tunes!

The orchestra has chosen to support the local Home Start for the Charterhouse concert. One of the leading family support charities in the UK, Home-Start volunteers help families with young children deal with the challenges they face, with home visiting volunteer support.

Families struggling with post-natal depression, isolation, physical health problems, bereavement and many other issues receive the support of a volunteer who will spend around two hours a week in a family’s home supporting them in the ways they need.

Ticket prices: £15 (under 25’s save 50%, under 16’s free with each paying adult) via GSO Box Office 01483 415847 or website www.g-s-o.org.uk. Tickets are also available from the Tourist Information Centre on 01483 444334 and Record Corner in Godalming on 01483 422006

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“The concert concludes with the Great C Major – Schubert’s Symphony No 9, and it really is a work on a grand scale”

LOVE LOC AL

KIDS’

CORNER

Things to do and see with the little ones in Surrey and Berkshire

13-23 february

Kids Camp fun at The Mall Camberley The Mall’s popular Kids Camp is back for more half term fun this February. Young shoppers aged from 4 to 10 years can enjoy different fun every day, including arts and crafts workshops, storytelling and animal petting in The Square.

Monday 13 February: Dance & Musical Theatre Sessions with The Secret Stage School.

Tuesdays 14 & 21 February: Arts and Crafts - make a small donation to help raise funds for Chloe’s and Sophie’s Special Ears Funds.

Wednesdays 15 & 22 February: Introduction to Golf with FairWeather Golf.

Thursdays 16 & 23 February: Rhyme time and Storytelling with Camberley Library.

Friday 17 February: Petting animals and fun from Jake’s Playbarn and Mini Farm, Sandhurst.

Kids Camp will be open from 11am to 4pm (Lunch break between 1pm and 2pm each day except for Thursdays when the event will end at 1pm). Children must be supervised at all times.

The Mall Camberley Surrey GU15 3SL

16 february

Plaster Sculpture (8-11 year olds) Learn how to create amazing abstract sculptures using Plaster of Paris. Visit the Henry Moore exhibition and discover how he was inspired by natural forms such as stones, shells and bones.

Then you will have fun experimenting with plaster and how it can be squashed and moulded to make your own beautiful sculpture to take home. Please dress for a very messy workshop and be aware that plaster can cause irritation to sensitive skin. Don’t forget to bring a box to take your work home in.1.30pm-3pm, £6.50.

The Lightbox Chobham Road, Surrey Woking, Surrey GU21 4AA 48 FEBRUARY 2017

11-19 february

half-term at Hatchlands Park Explore inside a tree, build a den or run around in the rain. See how many 50 things you can enjoy this half term. Booking Not Needed. 10am-4pm.

General Admission prices apply.

Hatchlands Park, East Clandon, Guildford, Surrey GU4 7RT

14-16 february

half term at painshill This February half-term children aged 8 -13 yrs can enjoy the magical delights of Painshill’s outdoor ‘wonderland’ during their popular Wild Woodland Camp. With 158 acres of natural and historic landscape, enchanted follies and a crystal Grotto, Painshill offers children the chance to discover, explore and learn in an inspiring and safe environment over the February half-term. Activities during the week are set to have children entertained all day.

From campfire making and bush craft to woodland games and wild art – there is lots of fun for everyone. Painshill’s Wild Woodland Camp also features many other new and exciting activities, such as campfire cooking and group campfire making, where children will have the opportunity to toast marshmallows and donuts, as well as make delicious hot chocolate over the cosy campfire. Other highlights of the camp include den building and badger tracking as well as woodland crafts and many more exciting bush craft activities.

With the creation of bow and arrows, spears, charcoal, mud sculptures and dream catchers to name a few, Painshill’s Wild Woodland Camp is set inspire, stimulate and educate young minds this half-term. 9am-4pm, £40 per day.

Portsmouth Road, Cobham, Surrey KT11 1JE

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20 & 21 february Box Hill bugs Fun outdoor learning for toddlers and early learners. Join us at Box Hill for fun outdoor learning sessions for toddlers and early learners. Booking Essential on 01306 878554. Children to be accompanied by an adult. Assistance Dogs only are welcome.

Box Hill, The Old Fort, Box Hill Road, Box Hill, Tadworth, Surrey KT20 7LB

11-19 february

february Half Term Fun Enjoy a great day out on the farm this February Half Term with the start of the Spring lambing. With up to 70 lambs due you may even see one being born! Birds of Prey will also be at the farm Monday-Friday where you can meet them up close and watch the flying demonstrations twice daily, along with the Pony Parlour, which will be open for pony grooming sessions. What’s more, there is a full programme of activities including pony rides, tractor rides, animal handling and pig racing. Outdoors, enjoy the jumping pillows, pedal go karts and treehouse towers. Plus the large indoor area with giant heated playbarn, trampolines and tractors means you can have a great day out whatever the weather! 10am to 5.30pm Bocketts Farm, Young Street Leatherhead Surrey, Surrey KT22 9BS

14-18 february

Animal Antics - Free Half Term Activities Join us for February half term as we learn about the role of animals in Surrey’s past and get creative with our free drop in family activities. Activities include; create a new species of animal, make your own animal mask, design the animals’ circus outfits, solve the zebra’s stripy puzzle, make a puppet farm and many more.

Activities are available during normal opening hours. Parents/ guardians are responsible for supervising their children.

Surrey History Centre,130 Goldsworth Road, Woking, Surrey GU21 6ND

14 FEBRUARY

Fun with Clay (4-8 year olds) Make a container out of air drying clay and have fun learning how to decorate it using different techniques, such as relief, stencilling and printing using natural objects. Please bring a box to take your work home in.

Advance booking required. All materials included, but please bring something to take your project home in. Children under 8 years must be accompanied by an adult. Accompanying adult goes free but be prepared to help your child if necessary!

1.30pm-3pm, £6.50.

The Lightbox Chobham Road, Surrey Woking, Surrey GU21 4AA

15 february

Funky Faces Come and make a wacky paper face using simple paper sculpture techniques. Suitable for children aged 4+, but all ages welcome.

Children must be accompanied by an adult. All materials included.

Please note that you may have to wait if the Education Studio is full. 1.30pm-4pm, free entry.

The Lightbox Chobham Road, Surrey Woking, Surrey GU21 4AA 50 FEBRUARY 2017

Discover your story at St George’s Weybridge…

Book onto one of our OPEN MORNINGS at www.stgeorgesweybridge.com

Nursery and Junior School (ages 3-11) College and Sixth Form (ages 11-18)

EDUC ATION

Cranleigh Thinking C

ranleigh is a leading co-educational weekly boarding and day school set in a stunning rural location in more than 280 acres on the edge of the Surrey Hills. Our beautiful campus is exceptionally well equipped, with outstanding classroom, studio, performance and sports facilities. There are strong links between the School and Cranleigh Preparatory School and pupils also join from a wide variety of other prep schools across London and the Home Counties, creating a lively, House-based community of young people who are drawn together by their inherent love of life and by getting involved in everything Cranleigh has to offer.

Visitors to Cranleigh are always struck by the warmth and friendliness of our community.

Cranleigh is a vibrant school which is large enough for diverse opportunities and yet small enough for every individual pupil to be known, supported and encouraged, whatever activities they undertake.

The range of choices available across all year groups is designed to broaden horizons and offer both challenges and opportunities to flourish. A high staff to pupil ratio, dedicated House staff and a nurturing tutor system all ensure that pupils’ personal wellbeing is paramount.

Cranleigh demonstrates powerfully that academic success does not have to be achieved at the expense of excellence in co-curricular activity. Our examination achievements and university entrance continue to excel, our music and drama flourishes

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and our sportsmen and women achieve at the highest levels.

We continually seek the most innovative approaches to teaching and learning, which bring us first-class results year on year. Our belief that the teaching of every subject can be enriched by putting the emphasis on teaching pupils to think is a core part of our approach to the curriculum.

Key to ‘Cranleigh Thinking’ is the involvement of philosophical methods of discussion, debate and inquiry, which add excitement and rigour to lessons right across the curriculum. We are learning to see ourselves as ‘Socratic mentors’ to our pupils, teaching them not by providing them with the right answers but with the right questions, the ones that will enable them to take the next step on the path to understanding.

Cranleigh Thinking is based on four key principles: teaching through questioning, learning through thinking, dialogue not monologue and teaching to think, not teaching to the test. We take the view that when education is carried out like this it is both more enjoyable and more memorable. It doesn’t mean we have stopped caring about those all-important exam results; it does mean that we are making sure that they aren’t the only thing Cranleighans take away from their time with us.

We want them to discover the joyful freedom that comes from learning to think for themselves.

Cranleigh School, Horseshoe Lane, Cranleigh GU6 8QQ

“Cranleigh Thinking is based on four key principles”

DIALOGUE

INQUIRY

CRANLEIGH THINKING REFLECTION

DISCOVERY

EDUC ATION

Join the Nursery at St George’s Junior School, Weybridge (for girls and boys aged rising three upwards)

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e offer a happy, fun and vibrant atmosphere that encourages, stimulates and supports a child’s development throughout the important first years of education. Girls and boys in the Nursery are encouraged to explore, discuss and interact with a wide range of learning materials, whilst getting used to sharing and caring within a group environment. What’s more, the children are able to benefit from a brand new state of the art Nursery building as well as the many indoor and outdoor facilities offered by the Junior School.

To find out about available spaces, email admissions@stgeorgesweybridge.com or call 01932 839437 or come to one of our next Open Mornings on 3 and 4 March 2017. St George’s Junior School Weybridge, Thames St, Weybridge KT13 8NL. 1932 839400. www.stgeorgesweybridge.com 4 FEBRUARY 2017

EDUC ATION

THE BENEFITS OF THE W

ith options ranging from boarding schools to modern alternative curricula, there is almost certainly a school to suit each and every child. Here are some of the reasons why parents are choosing to give their children the unique experience of private school and why it’s worth the financial investment.

Enriched academic opportunities One of the accepted benefits of private schools is that they provide exceptional and challenging educational experiences through extracurricular activities, Advanced Placement courses, and the International Baccalaureate programme, just to name a few. The IB programme focuses on school work and on developing you as a whole person.

Private school students constantly score top marks on standardized tests and college entrance exams, and many schools have a 100 per cent rate of students attending their university of choice.

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Controlled class sizes A comprehensive study on class size made by educational researchers Bruce Biddler and David Berliner in 2002 showed that the smaller the class size, the better the average student performs on academic achievement tests. The gains from smaller class sizes are stronger the longer a child is exposed to them. Private schools vary greatly in size, but depending on their teaching style, almost all focus on the importance of small class sizes to individually help students’ weak areas and advance their strengths.

Dedicated teachers In a study completed by the Fraser Institute in 2007, 91 per cent of parents surveyed said the dedication of the teachers was their main reason for choosing private school. Instructors are both qualified and passionate about their subjects, often holding advanced degrees in their field. Within the tight-knit school community, students have close relationships with their teachers

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL who commonly act as role models. In addition, small class sizes make staff members more readily available for extra help or to further challenge individual students.

Parental involvement Private schools are built around open communication between parents and administration, and they make it a priority to involve parents in the community. From frequent parentteacher meetings, social events such as parent breakfasts and family camping weekends, and the participation of parent committees in fundraising initiatives, families become an integral part of the child’s education. This common ground also helps strengthen parent-child relationships.

A safe environment Private schools have reputations for maintaining high standards for discipline and respect. Lower staff-to-student ratios allow for more effective observation and control of school grounds. The strong sense of community found in private schools also discourages dangerous behaviour. In the Fraser Institute study, around 72 per cent of parents surveyed with children in the private school system strongly agreed that their school was safe, which greatly improves the quality of the child’s educational experience and achievement. The discipline they learn also improves their rates for success in post-secondary education when they are in control of their class attendance and achievement.

Ample resources At private schools, you’ll find incredible resources to support student learning in the classroom, sports field, art studio, and beyond. Quality resources provide students with the opportunity to fully explore their interests and talents.

Development for today’s and tomorrow’s world Private schools go beyond offering the mandatory subjects required by provincial curriculum; they can offer students a wide range of specializations including arts programs, athletics, maths and science. Private schools are responsible for producing many leaders in politics, business and society, with a history of adapting quickly to changes in technology and culture. And today, they are also sought by parents of children with special needs such as behaviour problems or learning disabilities.

Extracurricular activities While academics remain the priority for most private schools, many also place a strong focus on a well-rounded education and encourage participation in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, arts or clubs. This involvement helps stimulate students in their studies, as noted in a study at Stanford University that found that students involved in the arts are more motivated to learn and are three times more likely to win a school attendance award. Extracurricular activities can provide a much-needed break from the stresses of academics while developing skills and engaging in valuable social situations.

FEBRUARY 2017 7

EDUC ATION

The Outdoor Classroom

WORDS: Emma Adriano,

A

Head of Lower School, St George’s School Windsor Castle

lmost 100 years ago Margaret Macmillan wrote in The Nursery School, “The best kept classroom and the richest cupboard are roofed only by the sky”.

Today, with the increasing use of technology, the reduction in play spaces, particularly in our cities, and with children starting school earlier, her words are possibly more significant than ever.

At St George’s we believe that children should be outdoors as much as indoors, and that a welldesigned, well-organised, integrated indoor/outdoor environment is crucial in child development. It should be, in Margaret Macmillan’s words, “unique in its opportunities, in its variety and interest”.

What is it that makes outdoor play so different from indoors? Of course, we could take out cars, dolls or bricks and replicate indoor play outside, but by its very nature, outdoor play is different. It is about taking risks, experimenting, discovering, making up games, noisy role play, and singing and laughing without the limits set by being indoors. A young child’s need for involvement as well as their wellbeing, alongside their urge to explore and make sense of the world, can be satisfied through high quality play in an outdoor environment.

“There is a garden in every childhood, an enchanted place where colours are brighter, the air softer and the morning more fragrant” Elizabeth Lawrence So what areas of development does outdoor play enhance? It not only offers the more obvious physical benefits in terms of an increase in a child’s physical development, capability and activity, but it sets up patterns for a healthy and active lifestyle.

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Freedom of movement encouraged in outdoor spaces also promotes a sense of well-being, and for many children playing outdoors in their early years setting may be the only opportunity they have to play safely and freely whilst they learn to negotiate and assess risk, and develop the skills to manage new situations. Children become familiar with nature, the weather and the change of seasons.

Research has shown that a child’s language, communication and problem solving skills can also benefit in the outdoors environment. Quieter children learn to speak more, and their more active peers become calmer and more focused.

Friendships are established and communication skills grow through cooperative play. The outside helps a child to self-regulate, resulting in fewer behavioural problems, and giving children more physical space and more opportunity to be active may reduce possible conflict. It is well documented that there is a strong connection between movement and well-being and movement and cognition. The outdoors allows children to move more freely within their environment, and this is particularly important to those children who learn best through active movement. It helps them to practise and master skills, and promotes positive attitudes towards the world through exploration and interaction. The outside classroom also stimulates a child’s senses, increasing their awareness of others as well as giving a strong sense of self. Mastery of all these skills in early childhood is fundamental in the development of an enquiring mind and later learning.

Whilst a well-planned outside classroom gives children a more relaxing space to learn and initiate their own activities, the support of well-informed, enthusiastic and engaging teachers is key. The high levels of interest and involvement that can be seen when children are engaged in learning outside allow teachers and classroom assistants plenty of time for long interactions and in-depth observations. Just as the outdoor environment encourages the early years child to become familiar with nature, weather and the changing seasons, it gives teachers and assistants further opportunity to observe and nurture the rapid changes in each child.

St George’s School, Windsor Castle, Windsor Castle, Windsor SL4 1QF. 01753 865553. www.stgwindsor.co.uk

“There is a garden in every childhood, an enchanted place where colours are brighter, the air softer and the morning more fragrant” – Elizabeth Lawrence

EDUC ATION

The importance of teaching students ‘international mindedness’

I

n an ever-changing world and increasingly global workplace, the importance of young people being internationally-minded is more relevant than ever before. Living in such an interconnected world requires a generation of problem solvers and creative thinkers who can understand challenges from a range of cultural perspectives.

International schools are perfectly positioned to help students widen their horizons. A classroom with peers and teachers from all over the world

10 FEBRUARY 2017

offers students the unique opportunity to explore curriculum subjects from multiple viewpoints, challenging perceptions and broadening their understanding across complex subjects.

Learning programmes that extend beyond national boundaries are central to an international education. At ACS Egham International School, is the only UK school to offer all four International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes; Primary years (3-10 years), Middle Years (10-16) and Diploma and Career-related (16-18 years) Programmes. Studying

these globally recognised qualifications mean our students are well prepared to go on to attend the university of their choice, in the UK or anywhere in the world.

While a number of students are expatriates, it is local, UK families who are joining in ever-increasing numbers as awareness of the life-long benefits of an international education can give grows. To find out more about how ACS Egham can enrich your child’s education or to register for an Open Morning visit www.acs-schools.com/opendays.

EDUC ATION

FEBRUARY 2017 11

EDUC ATION

Flexi and weekly boarding The popular options for children and parents When deciding on boarding options, increasing numbers of parents are choosing flexi or weekly boarding for their children.

B

oarding at an independent school falls into three categories; full boarding, weekly boarding and flexi boarding.

Whilst full boarding involves living at school seven days a week and weekly boarding five nights a week, flexi boarding allows pupils to board for a few nights on days of their choice.

Different schools operate their boarding in different ways, at Hurst College, the boarding community includes all three categories, with flexi and weekly proving most popular.

Flexi boarding really is flexible, with pupils able to choose their nights even at short notice, while retaining their own bed throughout the term. As all pupils participate in co-curricular activities many find this particularly beneficial, as do parents who need to juggle a busy lifestyle.

Hurst’s weekly boarders can stay Sunday to Thursday or Monday to Friday, removing the stresses of a daily commute and allowing more time for co-curricular activities and study.

So what are the benefits of boarding?

Housemaster Adam Hopcroft, said: “Boarding gives pupils a work-home balance. School life is busy, so boarding provides pupils with the chance to take part in extra-curricular sport, drama or music after school.”

However the benefits of boarding extend far beyond the extra-curricular options. Adam believes boarding gives pupils an advantage academically.

“Boarding pupils have more access to their teachers as well as their friends. Our pupils work in study groups during Prep and we make sure they are productive during this time. If they work well it allows them to have a more relaxed weekend.”

The Lower Sixth girls in Hurst’s Martlet house agree. Flexi boarder Tori comments, “Boarding helps to structure home time because you get all

12 FEBRUARY 2017

your work done in the boarding house and then home is fun time!”

Hurst’s Lower Sixth students Ellie, Jess and Olivia describe their boarding experiences; “At Hurst the Lower Sixth don’t have to do work during Prep time, we can read in our rooms instead, but we do it then anyway because we’re already in ‘school mode’. Boarding changes the way you work.”

Kathren Lea, Housemistress believes that a boarding environment gives students a strong foundation for their future. “With a mix of international pupils and flexi boarders the girls are making connections – and life-long friends - they wouldn’t normally make.”

“As boarders children have to learn skills for life, which is preparation for their future. Our girls grow up in a supportive environment and it becomes their second home.”

In the Upper Sixth, all pupils move into the co-educational house, St John’s, where boarders have their own single study bedrooms and the house ethos is based around preparing pupils for university.

In modern families where both parents are working full-time and childcare is expensive, boarding means parents don’t need to worry about the school run every day and can be confident that their child is being well looked after. This leaves weekends free for quality family time.

For children, boarding is a way to spend more time with their peers, be better prepared for the school day, instead of travelling to and from school and to take part in a range of extra activities.

Hurst is becoming known as the school where you board because you choose to, rather than need to. “I live 10 minutes away but I board because I enjoy it”, said Megan in the Lower Sixth.

THE DETAILS Hurstpierpoint College, College Lane, Hurstpierpoint, Hassocks BN6 9JS ••••• 01273 833636 www.hppc.co.uk

EDUC ATION

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EDUC ATION

How to Create a Child Genius London parents are upping their game in pursuit of the perfect report card. From philosophy programmes to bilingual nurseries, we offer a guide for modern tiger parents.

SCHMOOZE OR LOSE As every London parent knows, your child is an extension of your personality: your little ambassador in the world. It’s not enough to hope that your children will be happy and well-adjusted. You need them to be happy, well-adjusted and much cleverer than the other children you know. That magical phrase ‘gifted and talented’ on the report card is so much classier than turning up at the school gates in Armani jeans and an Audi Q6.

All this may look like middle-class one-upmanship masquerading as parental love, but let’s be honest: there is no greater love. We’re alchemising our own insecurities into the parenting rocket fuel that means our children will never have to suffer such insecurities themselves. Want to build a child genius? Then swot up on this...

Katie Hopkins left the nation aghast after declaring she wouldn’t let her children associate with kids named Charmaine, Chardonnay or Tyler.

Nevertheless, ambitious parents do vet their kids’ pals. Perfect manners and a reading age of 15?

Good playmate. Chews exercise books and likes setting things on fire? Discouraged. Hence Maggie & Rose, the UK’s first private members’ clubs for kids, with two branches in West London. Members can enjoy endless soft play, cookery classes, dance classes — and excellent social opportunities.

OK COMPUTER The modern parent hip to Steven Johnson’s Everything Bad is Good for You, knows that not all video games don’t rot the brain: they give it an IQraising cognitive workout. Look at the brilliant way digital publishers such as Nosy Crow incorporate problem-solving into storytelling, while apps such as Reading Raven are engaging ways to get children into the world of words.

TUNE IN Studies consistently prove that children who learn music show greater increases in IQ than those who don’t; research has shown that listening to Mozart produces a measurable increase in spatial reasoning.

So seek out an instrument that will nourish your darling son or daughter’s mind and soul, and make your home intolerable during practice time.

DOUBLE UP Most London schools are attended by children who speak many languages. Naïve parents might think this is a good way for their child to pick up a few foreign words. Wrong. Instead, you want to aim for a nursery where they speak two languages deliberately, rather than lots by accident. French never hurts, and there’s a good number of French bilingual nurseries in London. To be extra chic, brave the waiting list for a place at the Azbuka Foundation’s Russian nursery in Richmond.

THINK OR SINK What could be more important than a five-year-old getting special help dealing with the things that are most fundamental to the history of Western thought. Most tots are struggling with whether ‘i’ comes before ‘e’. Get yours worrying instead about whether existence comes before essence. The P4C Co-operative (philosophy for children) – a 16 FEBRUARY 2017

worldwide educational movement launched in 1972 by the American professor Matthew Lipman — offers, for a modest subscription (£35), a range of philosophy-teaching online resources for kids.

ACT UP Drama lessons are very important for building confidence, imaginative play, empathy and those healthy feelings of hating six-year-old Amelia because she beat you to Cordelia in the school production of King Lear, so you ended up having to play Goneril. It’s tough out there: best get them used to it early. The media yummy mummies of Crouch End swear by Perform and its high-energy productions: each term builds to a full ensemble performance, backed by bespoke apps and a swishy online costume shop.

LEARN THROUGH PLAY There’s oodles of research supporting it. Chess, of course, teaches basic game theory and pattern recognition. And Scrabble offers vocabulary and simple maths. But bridge, as well as being an opportunity for parents and children to bond, encourages complicated strategic thought, memory and communication skills. Andrew Robson’s bridge club in Fulham does children’s lessons.

TEST TASTES As they say in computer science: garbage in, garbage out. It’s all very well making sure that your children eat well at home, but what about when they’re with other children? Unless your child is properly trained, they could easily be tempted to accept Haribo Tangfastics, Dairylea Triangles or worse. So educate your progeny early to question the provenance of food — a friend’s child, for instance, politely declines supermarket sausages and expresses a preference for Parmesan over cheddar.

HOMEWORK IT Everyone knows that the key to learning is partnership. It’s no use leaving your little darling to struggle through writing a poem or drawing a dinosaur without guidance — especially when he/ she thinks Triceratops and Trilobites lived at the same time and were both pink, or that one sentence in two merits an exclamation mark. Here’s the chance for your child to watch — little brain soaking it all in like a sponge — as you build a diorama of a PreCambrian habitat or correct that dear little sonnet from Shakespearean to Petrarchan.

EDUC ATION

a musical alternative The Academy of Contemporary Music’s Principal, Adam Bushell, explains why you should consider an A-Level alternative this September

W

ith a government requirement to stay in education until the age of 18 and with more options available than ever before, making a decision about your child’s further education needs can be a little overwhelming. But with the Creative Industries now contributing more than £84.1 billion to the economy every year, Adam Bushell, Principal of Guildford’s prestigious Academy of Contemporary Music wants you to consider an A-Level alternative, this September.

“Whether students choose to focus on music performance, songwriting, production, technical services or business management, we pride ourselves on delivering an immersive music industry education in which we match the highest quality of teaching and learning with an unparalleled student experience.

Representing every corner of the field they hope to work in, ACM is, in this way, creating a microcosm of the music industry in which our students really can work together and learn by doing.

Students on ACM diploma courses have the exclusive privilege of gaining insider access to a real world recording studio (Metropolis), radio station (Eagle 3) and now, thanks to a new relationship with Guildford Borough Council, a working theatre (The Electric Theatre). We believe that this hands on learning experience, coupled with tuition from our world-class tutors, is why our alumni are proven to be so successful in the music industry.

With talented alumni from local-boy-done-good Newton Faulkner to Grammy Award winning Ted 18 FEBRUARY 2017

Dwane of Mumford & Sons, and thousands of graduates out there enjoying life-long, sustainable careers in music, ACM students bridge the gap between what the music industry needs and what education has traditionally provided.

When enrolling onto an ACM Extended Diploma programme, students will not only benefit from unmatched experience in the field of music, but also gain a qualification worth more than 3x A Levels at A* Grade. Whilst over two thirds of our Diploma students stay with us for Higher Education, the quality of the qualification allows them to study music now, and keep their options for Higher Education wide open for the future.

Recently, we received fantastic feedback from our Further Education awarding body, the University of the Arts London (UAL). In their, report they described ACM as a ‘beacon for delivery’ and commended us on our facilities, ethos and approach to music industry education. And as if all of this isn’t good news enough, thanks to government funding, studying at Level 2 or 3 at ACM is completely free for first-time students under the age of 19.”

ACM holds Campus Tours weekly, so if you think that an ACM Diploma could be an option for you or your child, please come and visit us by booking online at www.acm.ac.uk. enquiries@acm.ac.uk / Tel 01483 500800

“We pride ourselves on delivering an immersive music industry education in which we match the highest quality of teaching and learning with an unparalleled student experience”

EDUC ATION

Let the Drama begin…

How to get your kids into stage school S

hows like the X Factor and Britain’s Got Talent make fame seem fast track, but behind the scenes is often a long, arduous journey.

The idea of your Sylvia Young Theatre School child forging a career A specialist performing arts school offering excellent vocational and academic on stage may seem education. The school was established in 1981 in Drury Lane. In July 2010, they a risky one, but with moved to premises in Nutford Place, just off Seymour Place in W1. The site renowned stage schools houses two vocational floors with studios, rehearsal rooms, a recording studio, offering academic two academic floors and a large canteen with two courtyard gardens. studies alongside the Ages: “The Sylvia Young Theatre School is non-denominational and covocational, children educational. Students range from 10 to 16 years of age.” can perfect their talents 1 Nutford Place, London W1H 5YZ while gaining a secure www.syts.co.uk education.

Read on for our guide to getting your child into stage school...

Parents who are interested in letting their children follow the creative path should start looking into some of the best acting schools for kids in UK. Children at a young age will benefit from learning drama at stage schools in many different ways, not least of which is gaining confidence.

Acting schools for kids help with raising child’s self-esteem and levels of confidence, and positive reinforcement is one of the key factors to successful training and fun creative outlet. Even if your kids aren’t interested in pursuing careers in the entertainment business or the artistic world, all the tools that good teachers in some of these best acting schools for kids in UK will provide them with will benefit students in many different aspects.

Kids learn best when they are surrounded by fun, supportive and understanding teachers. They love to play and learn when the environment is comfortable and relaxed instead of being confined to stress of work. Some of these best acting schools for kids is exactly what your child might need, and the classes will usually be kept to smaller sizes in order to provide a The Barbara Speake Stage School safer, more focus environment.

In addition to having kids learn The school was opened on February 10th 1945 as a dancing acting from a variety of other sources, school only, by the present principal Miss Barbara Speake MBE. including reading books that expand In 1963 it became a full time school providing academic and imagination, stage schools can also be a artistic training. The strength of the school is in its friendly great idea. Best acting schools for kids atmosphere, traditional qualities and caring and committed staff. in UK will focus not only on educating If you wish for a small happy school for your child, where every children in the artistic field but building teacher can care for his or her indivudual needs, then it is here. It their confidence levels, exploring and has been proved that pupils here succeed though enjoyment of praising their creativity. their school which gives them confidence to follow whatever path But above all else, the most they choose whether in the field of entertainment, or in a more important part of having your child academic career. attend one of these acting schools for Ages: “Barbara Speake Stage School, London is an independent kids is that they will have an insane school for boys and girls aged from 4 to 16.” amount of fun playing, and definitely East Acton Lane, East Acton, London, W3 7EG enjoy the process! www.barbaraspeake.com

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West End Summer School The Ultimate Theatre Summer School for 8–21 year olds. An amazing week-long course at the renowned Guildhall School of Music & Drama, past students of which include Daniel Craig and Orlando Bloom! Led by top industry professionals and West End stars that gives your child the chance to perform on a West End Stage!

West End Stage, Top Floor, 17 Maiden Lane, Covent Garden WC2E 7NL

Italia Conti Arts Centre One of the most famous stage schools in the UK. Founded in 1911, the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts is Britain’s oldest Performing Arts training school. It is renowned throughout the world as a training centre of excellence. Italia Conti Arts Centre in Guildford, Surrey, is the addition to their growing campus and offers a range of unique courses which incorporate quality Performing Arts Training with the opportunity to undertake Teacher Training qualifications. They provide full and part time courses for students of all ages, from little ones finding their feet, through to professional training for those embarking on a career in Performing Arts and Musical Theatre.

Ages: “Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts, London is an independent school for boys and girls aged from 10 to 19.”

23 Goswell Road, London, EC1M 7AJ www.italia-conti.com

Stagecoach Theatre Arts School Stagecoach Theatre Arts is a highly regarded network of performing arts schools with a proven record of delivering quality dance, drama and singing lessons to youngsters worldwide. Over the years Stagecoach has provided a springboard for some of the UK’s leading young talent and has had the privilege of watching thousands of kids grow in confidence and ability. Their formula of teaching small classes of children an hour of dance, an hour of singing and an hour of drama on a weekly basis was an instant success.

Ages: “Dance, Drama & Singing Classes for 4-18 year olds” Multiple locations across the world. www.stagecoach.co.uk

BRIT School The BRIT School is a Performing Arts and Technology School for teens aged 14-19, located in Croydon. Students have the chance to study vocational subjects in dance, theatre, music and media alongside the national curriculum.

The BRIT School for Performing Arts & Technology, 60 The Crescent, www.brit.croydon.sch.uk

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EDUC ATION

22 FEBRUARY 2017

HEALTH &

beauty – Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best – i ma g e : B ATH E A WAY YOUR WINT E R B L U E S

H EALTH & BEAUTY

The Perfect Pout

Lip filler is one of our favourite treatments to do at the Light Touch Clinic. We take a lessis-more approach to subtly enhance your lips and your smile.

L

ip shape has always been in the limelight and throughout the years there have been many trends such as the ‘Paris Lip’. In this article we take a look at three distinct trends we have noticed at our clinic.

How Does It Work?

Before undergoing lip filler treatment, you will be invited to a consultation with Dr Natalie Blakely or Janine Scott RGN. Our practitioners will assess your suitability for treatment and discuss your desired results. They will work with you to put together a bespoke plan of action to help you get the perfect pout!

At the Light Touch Clinic we only use dermal fillers which are made from hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally found in the body. These fillers are temporary and can last up to 6 months.

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WHY LIGHT TOUCH? Harley Street expertise in Surrey ••• CQC-registered ••• Multi-award winning clinic ••• Industry-leading results ••• Award-winning treatments ••• 95% of patients rated their customer experience as good or very good

The Luscious Lip

Peri-Oral Perfection

Popular with our younger patients, the Luscious Lip treatment is all about adding volume to the lips.

Maintaining the perfect ratio of upper to lower lip, our practitioners will gently plump your lips for a fuller pout.

As you can see in our patient’s before and after photographs, the filler has made her lips plumper without losing their natural, beautiful shape.

As we age, not only do we lose volume from our lips, but our lips lose their shape. This results in a flatter Cupid’s bow, longer white lip and further lipstick bleed problems.

With more mature patients we really take a lessis-more approach by adding super subtle volume to replenish your lips. It is especially important with older patients that we give the peri-oral area (the area around the lips) some TLC. We can use filler here to address those vertical lines above the top lip and recover your Cupid’s bow. This results in a natural yet more defined lip.

BEFORE

Don’t worry – we have natural-looking solutions for mature lips too!

BEFORE

After Lip Filler and ULTRAcel jowl lifting

Smooth But Subtle

IMMEDIATELY after

Our lips begin to lose their youthful volume as we hit middle age. You might also notice that the lines on your lips are becoming more obvious and lipstick bleed is proving a problem.

Fortunately, our skilled practitioners can help restore that lost volume and fill out those pesky lines with lip filler. This results in hydrated, well-groomed lips that look fab with or without a slick of colour.

We aim for a natural look - the only one who should know that you have had lip filler is you!

In addition, at this age it is a good idea to start thinking about the lower face that frames the lips.

We get especially great results when we combine lip filler with some gentle chin support or even skin tightening treatments such as ULTRAcel.

#LoveYourLips A Valentine’s treat for your lips!

Receive a free Instant Effects Lip Plumper with all lip filler treatments this February. This lip plumper does not sting or aggravate like others and gently plumps and hydrates for smooth, luscious lips. Wear alone for a glossy, natural finish or top with slick of colour.

Call 01932 849552 to book your consultation.

Remember to quote Life Magazines!

THE DETAILS

Light Touch Clinic, 50 Church Street, Weybridge, Surrey, KT13 8DS www.lighttouchclinic.co.uk info@lighttouchclinic.co.uk 01932 849552 FEBRUARY 2017 77

H EALTH & BEAUTY

Bathe away your winter blues

words: Katie WrighT

A

s good for your mood as they are for your body, baths can become addictive in winter, but that’s no bad thing. The four essential ingredients for a super soak? You’ll need a candle, soothing music or a podcast, wine (or tea if you’re abstaining this month), and something delightfully fragranced to pour into the steaming tub. Turn your bathroom into a spa-like sanctuary with these bathing beauties...

ESSENTIAL OILS TempleSpa Drift Away Bathing and Massage Oil, available from templespa.com

The most luxurious way to scent your soak, bath oils dissipate in hot water, releasing the fragrance and creating a moisturising film that clings to your skin. They may be more expensive, but you only need a splash, and the potent aroma of essential oils can be invigorating (citrus and ginger) or slumberinducing (lavender works wonders before bed).

TempleSpa Drift Away Bathing and Massage Oil, £25 (www.templespa.com); Neom Energy Burst Bath & Shower Drops, £40 (www.neomorganics.com); This Works Deep Sleep Bath Oil, £80 (www.thisworks.com)

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SPRINKLING OF SALT If soothing aching limbs and cold symptoms is your top priority in the tub, bath salts are what you need. A capful of the clever crystals in a hot bath will relieve muscle tension, plus the salt draws out moisture to reduce bloating (result!), while the vapours help clear airways.

It’s a match made in technicolour heaven: Clinique Mandara Spa Oriental has teamed up with Crayola to bring you 10 lip balm Retreat Bath Salts Chubby Sticks in crayon-bright shades, like Mango with Cedarwood Tango and Mauvelous. Available in full size, £17.50 and Sweet Orange, each, or a box of eight adorable minis, £35, that £8, Sainsbury’s evokes the childhood joy of opening a fresh (www.sainsburys. pack of crayons. co.uk); Kneipp Clinique Crayola Chubby Stick Eucalyptus Cold & Moisturizing Lip Colour Balm Flu Mineral Bath Salt, in Razzmatazz, £17.50 (www. £8.95 (FeelUnique.com); clinique.co.uk)Eau de Parfum, Bloomtown Botanicals £48 for 50ml, Boots The Woods Pink Himalayan (www.boots.com) Bath Salts, £10 (Etsy.com)

Buy it now

WHEN IN FOAM...

For the ultimate in relaxation, a frothy bubble bath

TRIED & TESTED

Mandara Spa Oriental Retreat Bath Salts with Cedarwood and Sweet Orange, available from sainsburys.co.uk

Kneipp Eucalyptus Cold and Flu Mineral Bath Salt, available from FeelUnique.com This Works Deep Sleep Bath Oil, available from thisworks.com

Lollia Dream White Tea and Honeysuckle Bubbling Bath, available from CuratedLiving.co.uk

PA Photo/thinkstockphotos. All photos courtesy of PA Photo/Handout

Soaper Duper Shea Butter Body Butter with Tahiti Monoi, Macadamia Oil and Pressed Vanilla Pods, available from tesco.com

Liz Earle Superskin Body Cream, available from lizearle.com

This beauty-boosting supplement’s been getting rave reviews.

Laura Wurzel puts it to the test, to see if it lives up to the hype...

MAGIC LOTIONS will make you feel like you’re floating on a cloud.

Lavish, oil-infused bath foams offer skin-softening properties too - but if you’re feeling the pinch this month, cheap-as-chips bubble bath will do the trick.

Lollia Dream White Tea & Honeysuckle Bubbling Bath, £59 (CuratedLiving.co.uk); Humble Bath Honey Rose & Frankincense, £12, Waitrose (www.waitrose.com)Little Soap Company Pure English Lavender Bubble Bath and Pure Rose Geranium Bubble Bath, £5.99 each (www.littlesoapcompany.co.uk)

Prolong that post-bath Zen by lathering up with a body lotion - particularly important if you’re partial to a piping hot soak that can leave your skin dry Gourmand scents, like vanilla and tonka bean, are real mood-boosters, while ingredients like shea butter and argan oil will soften and restore moisture.

Liz Earle Superskin Body Cream, £33 (www. lizearle.com); Soaper Duper Shea Butter Body Butter with Tahiti Monoi, Macadamia Oil & Pressed Vanilla Pods, £10, Tesco (www.tesco.com)

“The two months I took Beauty Beneath - a supplement containing ‘an expert blend of phytonutrients’ including Lycopene, vitamins C and E, plus Biotin, Marine Collagen and Omegas 3 and 6, which promises to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles - were the perfect testing conditions: First there was the gloomy weather, and I was going through two very stressful life changes - buying a new house and changing jobs. Usually, these things would really ‘show’ on my face, yet this time, they didn’t seem to affect my skin. I took the two capsules a day, as instructed, and even after several sleepless nights, there were no new wrinkles around my eyes, and the ones I did have seemed to reduce in appearance. There was also a marked improvement in the fine lines around my face overall. My skin felt super-smooth and soft too, and apart from a few spots around my chin, my complexion was very clear. Compared to the results I’ve had with expensive face creams and serums, these pills are worth every penny.”

Beauty Beneath, £39.99 for 60 capsules, Boots (www.boots.com) FEBRUARY 2017 79

H EALTH & BEAUTY

SUMMER BODIES ARE MADE IN THE WINTER At Courthouse clinics If your New Year’s Resolution to lose weight and get in shape is starting to stall as the weeks fly by, why not try one of Jill Zander’s body contouring treatments, to stay on track or give your progress a boost?

O

ur popular Cool Tech Fat Freezing treatment offers a fast, effective way to permanently eliminate stubborn pockets of fat from problem areas such as thighs, tummy, back and arms. As the name suggests, Fat Freezing (also known as cryolipolysis) works by freezing fat cells, causing them to die off and be eliminated naturally through the body’s own lymphatic system.

This pain-free treatment is a great non-invasive alternative to liposuction, and achieves visible results after just one session.

Another popular pain-free body contouring treatment at Jill Zander is Endermologie. Bikini season might still be months away, but summer bodies are made in the winter, so now is the ideal time to begin a course. Endermologie is scientifically proven to reduce the appearance of cellulite, boost circulation and improve skin tone. A special handheld massage device is rolled over problem areas, breaking down the fat, water and toxins that give skin that uneven, dimpled appearance. During the process, blood flow is increased, skin is exfoliated and fat metabolism is increased – resulting in noticeably firmer, smoother, toned-looking skin. Book today and banish those lumps and bumps by the time the sun reappears!

If skin tightening is your goal, then our Radiofrequency body treatments could be exactly what you’re looking for. Our Exilis Elite XL radiofrequency heats the surface of the body to instantly tighten loose skin – often an issue following dramatic New Year weight loss. Exilis Elite also targets the subcutaneous tissue, to help break down fatty deposits, so it can be used to target cellulite on the arms, abdomen, buttocks and thighs.

Our Soprano skin tightening is another minimally-invasive treatment option for firmer, younger-looking skin. Using highintensity infrared light, Soprano painlessly heats up the skin’s deeper layers, stimulating collagen production and improving surface skin tone and tautness. It can be used on almost any region of the body, and is an excellent option for women post-pregnancy.

Whatever your aesthetic concerns, we understand that there are lots of different treatments options available. For more information, and expert advice, call our customer care team now on 0845 555 5050. We look forward to seeing you in clinic very soon.

Jill Zander 96 High St, Esher KT10 9QJ. Tel: 01372 471448

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H EALTH & BEAUTY

Unlock your skin’s true potential; Your journey to better skin starts here

W

ant to know the secret to priming your canvas top to toe? Turn to sk:n, the UK’s leading skin clinic, to unveil a fresher you in 2017.

With a growing network of 43 clinics nationwide and numerous clinically proven treatments available, trust sk:n to refresh and revitalise the skin you’re in, so you can embrace it with confidence.

Employing some of the top dermatologists and registered healthcare professionals in the country, sk:n offers highly effective solutions to treat your skin from top to toe. So, whether you long to finally rid a bout of acne that has bothered you for years, or you’d like to address fine lines and wrinkles, or simply speak with a qualified expert to discover better skin, sk:n has a solution tailored to suit you.

We caught up with aesthetic nurse, sk:n regional trainer and general all round skincare fanatic Ruth Breeden (left), to find out about her top three treatment picks.

Laser Hair Removal Forget reaching for the razor and experience soft, smooth skin all year round with a laser hair removal treatment from the nation’s skin specialists.

Lasting longer than any other hair reduction treatment on the market, it is still the most effective long-term hair removal solution. It works by safely focusing a laser light beam at the base of the hair follicle, stopping hair growth and offering up to 90 per cent permanent hair reduction. The process is no more painful than waxing and can be used on any part of the body including more delicate and sensitive areas such as the face, bikini line, legs and underarms. In fact, sk:n has already helped over one million people escape the cycle of removing unwanted hair, with over 450,000 choosing to remove it from the facial area.

Microneedling Having lots of tiny needles puncture your skin 82 FEBRUARY 2017

multiple times may sound like a form of medieval torture, however Dermapen revitalise is actually a highly effective rejuvenating treatment that targets the deeper layers of the skin. It can help to combat the signs of ageing such as fine lines, wrinkles and loss of volume as well as minimising the appearance of large pores. Tiny needles in a hand held pen device cause microscopic punctures in the skin. These micro-injuries, prompt your skin into repair mode, encouraging the production of collagen to renew the skin which has experienced trauma.

Skin Peels Peels allow you to quite literally give your skin a fresh start, by removing dead, dull damaged skin and prompting a brighter, clearer complexion as new skin cells are encouraged to grow. As many of us lead busy, full lives, we are often ‘time poor’ but ‘plan rich’, lighter peels such as a Glycolic or a Mandelic peel, as opposed to deeper peels or resurfacing options, will allow you to refresh your appearance in time for a big event without being out of action with peeling skin.

This month at sk:n you can benefit from a fantastic saving of 50% off your first treatment*. So whether you opt for one of Ruth’s top treatment picks or another of sk:n’s clinically proven skincare solutions, your journey to better skin starts here at sk:n. sk:n, 101a High Street, Esher, KT10 9QE, 01372 238 756 www.sknclinics.co.uk *Selected treatments only, terms and conditions apply, please refer to the sk:n website for more information.

Fast Facts ·sk:n is the largest network of accessible clinics in the UK

·sk:n is the most recommended skin clinic by GPs

·sk:n offers the widest range of clinically proven treatments and products, for the widest variety of skin conditions

·sk:n is the only skin clinic with medical treatment protocols, governed by our Medical Standards Team

sk:n are founding members of Treatments You Can Trust (TYCT), a Department of Health backed register of cosmetic injectable providers

H EALTH & BEAUTY

The Other Academy Awards!

THE Winners

The Academy Salon of the year – Claygate

H

airdressing hotshot Josh Goldsworthy was the host and compere for the third Academy Hair & Beauty Salon Awards, which recognized and celebrated the stellar achievements of the Academy group’s salons and team.

The black tie event was held at the prestigious Brookland’s Hotel in Weybridge Josh commented, “The evening was about the Academy Salon’s success not only in cutting hair, but also the total client journey. From front of house and consultation to cutting, colour and beauty, the strengths of the amazing Academy team were cele-brated.”

There were six hotly contested Business Awards; including Best Client Retention and Record Average Takings; three for Education, and also 15 Creative Awards. There were three nominees per category, which created a highly competitive, but fun atmosphere. Trophies were presented to each of the winners by representatives from Academy salons’ manufacturer and brand partners Balmain Paris Hair Couture, Liv-ing Proof, Alterna Haircare, Salon Evolution Group, Salon Spy and InterTraining Services.

The award ceremony portion of the fabulous evening climaxed with the presentation of the prize for the individual Salon of the Year which went to Claygate, while a genuinely surprised but hugely ecstatic Maurizio Ferraro from the Hersham Salon scooped Hairdresser of the Year for the first time.

A Life Time Achievement Award was also presented to a delighted John Baxter-Hill who has just celebrated 50 years in the business, he said “I can’t believe it has been so long but I’ve enjoyed every little twist and turn of this fantastic industry and I have absolutely no intention of giv-ing up anytime soon – this award makes me so proud and even more passionate about my work” Managing Director, Salv Mulé congratulated all the winners on their hard work and contribution to the continuing success of the salons. He said, “It’s evenings like this that just make me so proud of my team and even more passionate about this fantastically creative service industry that we are all part of.”

Photography: Tim Fox www.PortfolioPhotography.co.uk

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Record average bill Caroline Milne Record takings in a day Hannah Thom Record takings in a month Meryl Thomspon Retailer of the year Hannah Thom Best Client retention Natalie Evans Best re-booking Christine Madigan Most Days worked Sarah Biss Best team player Jodie Perry Best Newcomer Natalie Evans Most Improved team member Amy O’Halleran Above & Beyond Sarah Biss Assistant of the year Talia Smith Graduate of the year Amy O’Halleran Front of house Holly Lovell and Charlotte Vieirra - Martins Most Motivated Team member Amy O’Halleran Best Dressed Couple Denny and John Baxter-Hill Most Improved Student Julie Williams Most Creative Student Talia Smith Most Advanced Student Lily Yuraszek Extensionist of the Year Meryl Thompson Colour Technician of the Year Caroline Milne Men’s hairdresser of the year Charlotte Gorman Ladies hairdresser of the year John Baxter - Hill Retail Salon of the Year Cobham Manager of the year Christine Madigan Hairdresser of the year Maurizio Ferraro Salon of the year Claygate

Salv and Emma Mule

Salon Directors Salv Mule and Franco Capozzi

10 The Green, Hersham, Surrey KT12 4HL T: 01932 252 464 ••••• 42 High Street, Cobham, Surrey KT11 3EB T: 01932 864 929 ••••• 105 Hare Lane, Claygate, Surrey KT10 0QX T: 01372 462 724 ••••• 91 High Street, Esher, Surrey KT10 9QA T: 01372 466 400 ••••• 81 Queens Road, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 9UQ T: 01932 852289 ••••• www.academysalons.com www.balmainhair.com Academy Salons - finalists for the British Hairdressing Business Awards 2016.

H EALTH & BEAUTY

The cheat’s guide to

chocolate indulgence I words: Katie Wright

f you’re abstaining from all things confectionery-related after a glut of festive feasting, you can still surround yourself with chocolate-scented and cocoa-filled goodies.

Keep those hankerings at bay with these chocinspired beauty products - in one case, you can even get away with nibbling on a piece of the real deal...

Mocha Make-Up

Inspired by two of Bobbi’s favourite treats, the Bobbi Brown limited edition Wine and Chocolate collection borrows the warm, flattering shades of the delicious delicacies. Housed in cute chocolate block packaging, Kiko Cocoa Shock blushes come in four subtle shades, each with a sweet vanilla scent. What looks like a box of three exotic

Buy it now

Suffering a seasonal skincare slump?

BareMinerals comes to the rescue with the new Brilliant Future Age Defense & Renew Serum, £42. Containing a blend of five potent ingredients, including manganese and Chai Hu extract, smooth on a few drops twice daily before your moisturiser to revive a tired complexion (www.bareminerals.co.uk).

86 FEBRUARY 2017

chocolate bars is actually a trio of palettes from cult brand Zoeva. Called Cocoa Blend, Caramel Melange and Blanc Fusion, each contains a mix of matte, shimmering and sparkling eyeshadows, so you can pick and mix your own shades.

Bobbi Brown Chocolate Eye Palette, £42.50; Brightening Blush in Warm Cocoa, £35 (www. bobbibrown.co.uk); Kiko Blush Cocoa Shock Silky Rose and Mauve, currently reduced to £5.40 from £10.90 (www.kikocosmetics.com); Zoeva Plaisir Box, £48 (CultBeauty.co.uk)

Scrumptious Scents

Lush has a whole heap of products that emulate the irresistible aroma of cocoa. Whipstick gives you a hot chocolate lip balm hit, while Dirty Massage Bar

RED RULES

No prizes for guessing what’s been voted the most iconic beauty look of all time... Beloved of everyone, from Marilyn Monroe to Taylor Swift, red lippy took the top spot in the survey by Superdrug.

Here’s the full top 10: 1. Red lipstick 2. Smoky eyes 3. Winged eyeliner 4. French manicures 5. Natural looking make-up 6. Long wavy curls 7. Beehive hairdo 8. The Bob 9. Smudged kohl liner 10. Glossy lips

TRIED & TESTED PA Photo/thinkstockphotos. All images courtesy of PA Photo/Handout

Is epilation too harsh for sensitive skin? Emily Wright plucks up the courage to try Braun’s new multipurpose device...

“The Braun Silk-Epil 9 can be used wet or dry, so I first tried it out while having a soak in the tub. I was prepared for epilation to smart, because I have quite sensitive skin, and while I did wince as the first few leg hairs were tweezed out at the root by the revolving head, overall, it wasn’t too painful, and as I got the hang of it, I got a lot faster. My follicles were a little red after but they soon calmed down, and I was impressed with the long-lasting effects compared to shaving. The device also comes with a range of interchangeable attachments - I used the sensitive exfoliation brush on my legs, which helps prevent ingrown hairs (I haven’t seen any yet), and the deep exfoliation brush is great for a weekly thorough face cleanse.”

Braun Silk-Epil 9 SkinSpa 4 in 1 Wet and Dry Epilator, £179.99, Argos (www.argos.co.uk)

Bobbi Brown Brightening Blush in Warm Cocoa, available from bobbibrown.co.uk Bobbi Brown Chocolate Eye Palette, available from bobbibrown.co.uk

r Lipp Original Nipple Balm for Lips, available from LookFantastic.com

releases its mint-choc fragrance as it melts into your skin. If 80% cocoa solids chocolate is your poison, you’ll love the Library of Fragrance’s cologne concoction, which perfectly captures its rich, bitter aroma. But if the milk variety is more to your taste, lathering up with Palmolive’s Chocolate Passion shower cream is the next best thing.

Lush Whipstick Lip Balm, £6.75; Dirty Massage Bar, £5.95 (www. lush.com); The Library of Fragrance Dark Chocolate Cologne, £15 (www. thelibraryoffragrance.com); Palmolive Gourmet Chocolate Passion Body Butter Shower Cream, currently reduced to £1.23 from £2.49, Superdrug (www.superdrug.com)

Cocoa Care

Not only is it delicious, cocoa has lots of beneficial properties too, which is why the Sexy Hair’s new range is formulated with cocoa, alongside soya and argan oil, to boost shine and protect against UV damage. And if all that’s not

Lush Whipstick Lip Balmr, available from lush.com

Not only is it delicious, cocoa has lots of beneficial properties too enough, if you must resort to munching the real thing, then make sure it’s a piece of Esthechoc. Combining the natural antioxidant properties of chocolate with a powerful ingredient called Astaxanthin, one 7.5g square a day is clinically proven to improve microcirculation and reduce oxidative damage. It’s a pretty sweet deal...

Sexy Hair Healthy Soya Want It All Treatment, £11.35, and Soy Moisturizing Shampoo, £13.35 (LookFantastic.com); Esthechoc Cambridge Beauty Chocolate, £42.50 for a 30-day supply, Harrods (www.harrods.com)

The Library of Fragrance Dark Chocolate Cologne, available from thelibraryoffragrance.com

FEBRUARY 2017 87

H EALTH & BEAUTY

88 FEBRUARY 2017

INSPIRED LIVING

Home InteriorS Guide A collection of the finest Home Interior Companies

Image: Deborah Law Interiors Jonathon Little Photography

w w w. d e b o r a h la w i n t e r i o r s . c o. u k

INSPIRED LIVING

beautiful kitchens by neptune weybridge

T

he best kitchens don’t just look beautiful, but they behave beautifully too. That’s what international interiors company Neptune believe, and it’s a belief that’s felt in every inch of its exquisitely crafted kitchens. Timeless in style, thoughtful in design, uncompromising in quality, these are kitchens to last a lifetime.

Founded in 1996, Neptune is an award-winning British interiors and lifestyle brand with stores across the UK and Europe, including our very own in the heart of Weybridge. For those who are yet to discover Neptune, theirs is a world of beautifully hand-crafted furniture, textiles and accessories for the home and garden. Design wise, they’re perhaps most known for kitchens with their heirloom-worthy dressers not far behind. Their trademark ‘look’ is British. Refined, simple, sturdy, and with an almost obsessive attention to detail. And they’re certainly most respected for their commitment to craft and quality. Never will you find chipboard in a Neptune piece, nor will you see MDF, ever. Put simply, they make things they’re proud of, and want you to be too.

“The pared-back Suffolk takes its cue from the Shaker movement” Neptune’s kitchen collection consists of four signature designs: Chichester, Suffolk, Henley and Limehouse, and each comes with a lifetime guarantee. Chichester is a classic English design with cockbead moulding and has a simple perfection to it. The pared-back Suffolk takes its cue from the Shaker movement and shows a real discipline to design. The almost regal Henley kitchen is crafted entirely from solid oak and includes some rather impressive curved cabinetry. The Limehouse is the sleek one. The most obviously contemporary, it’s full of hidden secrets like a pullout spice rack and white stone prisms that act as drawer dividers. The one thing they all have in common is a wonderful amount of choice. From paint colours and types of cabinetry to work surfaces and even hardware, together with your dedicated kitchen designer you can create the kitchen you’ve always wanted.

All of these beautiful collections and more are available to view at the Neptune Weybridge store or online at www.neptuneweybridge.com.

Neptune Weybridge, 10 Church Street, Weybridge Surrey, KT13 8DX 2 FEBRUARY 2017

INSPIRED LIVING

FARROW & BALL REVEAL THEIR KEY COLOURS FOR 2017 Radicchio

Studio Green

Hay

All White

Pink has been at the forefront of decorating for the last year and there is now a natural progression to stronger reds, with their spirit of bold optimism.

Radicchio feels exuberant, romantic and sensual, rather than clean or graphic, due to its complex underlying blue tone.

There is something almost defiant about the use of botanic Studio Green on walls instead of the ubiquitous charcoal darks. It is unapologetically clubby and has a fantastically timeless old world quality, but can be used in the most modern of rooms.

E

ncapsulating both dramatic, vivid hues and more understated, subtle tones, the colours signal a readiness to embrace definite colour within interiors as we become more confident in our decorating choices. The four colours; Radicchio, Studio Green, Hay and All White, have an enduring appeal that remains comfortingly familiar despite being used in surprising combinations.

From the timeless, bygone feel of Hay and Studio Green, to the vivacious tones of Radicchio and the counterbalance of pure, uncomplicated All White, the colours have a refined quality that works wonderfully in both contemporary and traditional homes.

Understated Hay feels soft and familiar. Its quiet quality creates rooms that have a hushed atmosphere as well as an unmatched depth and gentleness. It is not a hot or sunny yellow - although it becomes more raw in bright light - but rather an aged, whimsical tone with an underlying green.

4 FEBRUARY 2017

A pure white like this is devoid of both colour and association. All White has no pigment and creates an uncomplicated feel which is naturally fresh, but not stark or ‘brilliant’. The key to this look is to create a mood of stillness and calm by layering different whites, and only whites, together.

FEBRUARY 2017 95

INSPIRED LIVING

Broadview Bespoke Shading Solutions I

A Family Business

t all started in the back room of a hardware store in the late seventies, when David Pratt decided to start selling blinds within his already successful timber business in Broadstone. Whilst incredibly ambitious, David could never have imagined that this extra merchandise would one day transform into a multimillion pound business.

What’s so charming about Broadview is that it still remains a family business, even now almost 50 years down the line; with David’s sons Mark and Ian at the helm, the business continues to grow and take-on new and exciting projects.

Innovation At Its Finest When I asked ‘Mike Lingham’ (head of sales) what his favourite project to date had been, he went on to explain their recent work up in London, for the hugely successful Recording Studio.

Broadview had initially been invited to rehabilitate their roof terrace, by replacing their somewhat worn umbrellas. Only when they visited the site their creative team was unanimously struck by a different vision – something that would totally transform that space. Regularly used as an entertainment centre for guests and recording artists, Broadview created a design concept that would renovate the terrace into the ultimate outdoor party pad, that could still stand up to the erratic British forecast. Broadview planned, designed and fitted a state of the art awning unlike any of it’s kind.

Luxury Products For Your Home I was under the illusion that the kind of products that commercial clients got would be different to those for residential jobs, but Mike explained, “There is no difference between the products we use in people’s homes, to the ones used in our large scale commercial projects – just more of them”. So ultimately the blinds in your home could be identical to those in a five-star hotel or even a recording studio for that matter – swanky windows indeed.

Shading On Trend Mike informed us that the way forward was very much about ‘automation’. It’s been a pretty innovative decade in terms of the progression of technology and it hasn’t bypassed the shading industry either. Supposedly in the next 5-6 years nearly all window shading will be battery powered, or in one way or another automated, as predicted by Mike and evidently the benefits are endless. Keep your eyes peeled, with the powers at be regularly attending training and industry relevant expos, I’m 6 FEBRUARY 2017

confident that Broadview will be one of the very first to stock automated shading, within budget.

Bespoke Shading Solutions Little insider information for those who might not know; the recent extension of ‘Bournemouth’s Oceanarium Café’ was created by Broadview’s talented team of designers and manufacturers. The iconic local haunt wanted to make the most of their incredible sea views, which were previously covered by towering white walls, so Broadview created a custom outdoor structure that could easily cope with the blustery seaside conditions, but didn’t take away from the view.

For luxurious shading solutions at affordable prices, visit or get in-touch with Broadview.

57 Hatchpond Road, Nuffield Industrial Estate, Poole, Dorset BH17 0JZ. Telephone: 01202 679012; Email: sales@broadview.co.uk; www. broadview-blinds.co.uk

“The recent extension of ‘Bournemouth’s Oceanarium Café’ was created by Broadview’s talented team of designers and manufacturer”

INSPIRED LIVING

Look

to the

light woRDS: Gabrielle Fagan, Press Association

W

inter may be bleak and dark, but it’s the perfect time to switch on to the power of lighting and illuminate rooms with everything, from razzle-dazzle new effects to simple bulbs which shine a spotlight on a feature, or even change a mood. “Lighting really matters in a home and can literally transform it,” promises George Clarke, architect and TV’s popular property presenter of George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces and The Restoration Man. “I’ve seen great buildings ruined by bad lighting schemes, and great lighting improve bad buildings. It can truly make that much difference. What’s fantastic these days, is that there are affordable, effective ways of personally tailoring lighting schemes, using technology like smart phones and tablets, which a decade ago, would have costs thousands.” Clarke, who’s currently working with Philips lighting, believes good lighting doesn’t just have a visual effect, but can also help improve our wellbeing. “Artificial light can now mimic natural light and light systems can be programmed to suit our body rhythms. Replicating a soothing sunset glow in the evening can help people relax and encourage relaxation and sleep, while gradually increasing light levels in the morning to mimic sunrise can encourage us to wake in a more gentle fashion. Lights conjuring the effect of natural sunlight indoors may offset the negative effect of a grey day outside. There’s almost no limit to what can be achieved.”

LIGHT BULB MOMENTS Recent research by B&Q revealed that 85% of us have no idea which bulb brightness is best to suit a task or set a mood. Clarke gives his guide to LED lighting... “In general, people are scared by lighting and confused by all the terminology. That’s a real shame because LED lighting is so versatile these 8 FEBRUARY 2017

Bella table lamp, £64; Claire table lamp, £56; pendant, £95; Penelope tiered pendant, £256 and Amelia ball pendant, £144, all available from Debenhams

“Recent research by B&Q revealed that 85% of us have no idea which bulb brightness is best to suit a task or set a mood” days. For instance, there’s a misconception that it’s a cold light, but the key to success is selecting the right colour temperature of the bulb, which is measured in a unit called a kelvin (k),” he explains.

“Bulbs with higher kelvin value create a cooler, crisp white light (4000k) which are suitable for practical areas, like a kitchen or bathroom, while those with a lower kelvin value (3000k) produce a warmer white light more appropriate for living rooms. “If you want to easily change the ambience, there are innovations like a Philips Scene Switch LED light bulb (£9.99, Amazon) which allows you to use your light switch to flick between three different light levels, from bright to natural to a soft warm light.

This bulb can be used on an existing light [simply using your normal light switch to change between settings] and removes the need for a dimmer.”

SEE THE LIGHTS: Playing with light has never

Tower pendant, £118.80, available from Dar Lighting

Acropolis table lamp, £20.70, available from Very

been easier thanks to advances in technology, such as a Philips Hue White and Colour Ambiance Wireless Lighting LED Starter Kit, £149.95 from John Lewis or Amazon, a new system allowing you to customise your lighting using a smartphone or tablet. After installing the Hue bulbs into existing light fittings and downloading the Hue app, you can access a wide range of functions, including settings for brightness, timings including a ‘go to sleep’ function with effects to encourage calm and relaxation, and colour changes.

LIGHT TOUCH “A common mistake people make is only having light coming from one source - for instance, simply having a ceiling light. In reality, good lighting is achieved by creating different layers of light which conjure variation, texture and atmosphere,” says Clarke. “Clever accent lighting - wall sconces, floodlights, recessed lights or track lighting - can dramatically change a space and highlight key areas or architectural features. Even just hanging an adjustable pendant light over a dining table will define the space and make it feel more intimate.

“Coloured lighting is also a fantastic way to add a ‘wow’ factor, especially if the light source is hidden.

Use coloured light strips above kitchen units, but, to get the maximum effect, keep the background a neutral white as a contrast.”

SEE THE LIGHTS: Nothing makes more of a statement than an intricately designed chandelier and, for a modern approach, fit one in an unexpected place like a kitchen or a bedroom.

Debenhams has an impressive lighting collection with the added bonus that many pieces are currently reduced online. A Scarlett Black Chandelier, with smoke and clear glass crystal strands, is reduced from £395 to £316, and a Penelope Pendant Ceiling Light, featuring layers of smoke glass cylinders, reduced from £320 to £256. Cluster lights are ultrafashionable and its contemporary Harrison Cluster Ceiling Light is down from £150 to £120. Very’s Glass Cloche Ceiling Light, £99, blends modern with traditional style, with a clear glass dome showcasing a cluster of light strings, and another winner in its collection is a Forest Pendant with etched tree design, £19. Dar Lighting, which has nationwide stockists, has super pendant lights and I particularly like its Tower Cluster Pendant, RRP £118.80. Pared-back designs allow materials to shine and B&Q’s Jonas Wire Copper Pendant Ceiling Light, £47, is a good example of that approach.

Urban Cottage Industries, specialists in vintage and industrial lighting, which offers bespoke lights, has a funky Green Large Balloon Light Bulb Cage, from £55.44. Experiment with coloured light with a Philips Hue LED Iris Light Colour Changing Mood Smart Lamp, £70, B&Q.

TRICK OF THE LIGHT “Lighting should be flexible, so you can zone different areas and alter light levels to change

Philips Hue LED iris light colour changing mood smart lamp, £70, available from B & Q

Caesar table lamp, £29, available from Very

mood, atmosphere or focus it to better suit a specific activity,” says Clarke. “A good scheme allows you to instantly reinvent a space - or, in increasingly popular open-plan living rooms, the areas within the space - without having to change a room’s overall layout. “There are so many ways to draw the eye.

Bare bulbs are very much on-trend, as are metallic finishes and sculptural shapes. Table lights are a really good way to partition areas in a room, so a light on a side table behind a sofa will create a visual break in an open plan room. “Do bear in mind colours and surfaces reflect and absorb light in different ways.

Shiny materials like satin, silk and metal bounce light around a room, whereas darker, denser materials, such as wool and velvet, soak up light.”

SEE THE LIGHTS: Show off your style credentials with lights inspired by the gaudy stars of the fairground. The fun Marquee collection at Debenhams has a selection: Flamingo Light, £150; Burst Star and Rainbow Floor Lights, both currently reduced online from £150 to £120; Lightening Bolt Floor Light, down from £95 to £76, and Cactus Floor Light, currently reduced from £125 to £100.

Bag bargain table lamps at Very: Caesar Table Lamp, £29; copper-base Acropolis Table Lamp, currently reduced from £27 to £20.70, and a pretty pair of Touch Lamps, only £19. Laura Ashley’s Odiham Antique Brass Desk Lamp, currently £87.50, down from £125, is a classic and its matching Sphere Pendant Light is £122.50. Adjustable lights are superuseful and Marks & Spencer’s Loft Adjustable Task Floor Lamp, £99, has a matching Table Lamp, £45.

Philips Scene Switch LED bulb, £9.99, available from Amazon

Loft adjustable task table lamp, £45 and floor lamp, 99, available from Marks and Spencer

Marquee floor lights Flamingo, £150; Rainbow light, £120; burst star, £120; cactus light, £100; Lightening, £76, all available from Debenhams

FEBRUARY 2017 9

INSPIRED LIVING

Callender Howorth

The Changing Face of London’s Interior Design

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esthetically speaking, London is a fascinating city of dichotomies: innovative, glass-façaded skyscrapers neighbour historic, colonnaded buildings; sprawling parklands complement densely populated communities; and the city’s mechanical flow of traffic replicates the organic flow of the River Thames.

It is the duality of modernity and tradition, however, that most inspires the city’s best interior designers. Callender Howorth - a full-service interior design company, based in the heart of London - is working to redefine the interiors of the capital’s most prestigious addresses, progressing the design of both residential and commercial spaces.

Mark Howorth, a Designer and the Founder of Callender Howorth, shares his opinions: “At Callender Howorth we don’t have a house style. We work closely with our clients to complete homes and reflect personalities. This is a fun process.

I see each project as a unique chance to create something special.

Design should be timeless and not overly measured or faddish. I focus on quality products, high-end finishes, and cleverly considered design, which give our clients interiors that endure.

London is a melting pot of cultures and personalities; the diverse energies of the city are inspirational. We have worldleading architects designing with innovation and creativity.”

We take a look at three of Callender Howorth’s recent projects to understand how London has forged a name for itself as a hub for dazzling design.

Mayfair Mews House The residents of a Mayfair Mews House traded Marylebone High Street for a Miami boulevard under the expert guidance of Callender Howorth: externally, the property resembles a conventional Victorian building, yet the inside is nothing short of a contemporary masterpiece. Callender Howorth has balanced functional living with sophistication and fun to create the Mother of all party pads. The internal courtyard and feature staircase offer a basis for a unique design.

The Exchange Building Modelled on a New York loft apartment and set in London’s Shoreditch, Callender Howorth’s Exchange Building Project benefits from an industrial motif that salutes the building’s past and makes the penthouse apartment look effortlessly cool: exposed brickwork brings character, glass partitions enhance a feeling of spaciousness, and an understated sense of minimalism makes the property look clean and stylish. Bathed in natural light, and embellished with colourful works of art, the Exchange Building Project encapsulates modern design.

Kensington House Taking the shell of a five-storey house in Kensington, the Callender Howorth team fashioned an elegant family home with many rock star 10 FEBRUARY 2017

amenities. Staff quarters, gym, and wine cellar define luxury in this well-proportioned property, which is situated on the Boltons – one of Britain’s most desirable locations. Natural colours and muted tones soothe, while striking chandeliers and interesting furnishings transform an empty space into an inspiring home.

Callender Howorth Interiors, The Tanneries, 55 Bermondsey St, London SE1 3XN. 020 7336 8560. www.callenderhoworth.com

INSPIRED LIVING

Love the home you have WORDS: Gabrielle Fagan,

Press Association

L

et’s face it, our homes, just like our bodies, often leave a lot to be desired, and it’s easy to get dispirited about those lumps and bumps or spaces that don’t match our decor dreams.

So what a relief to find ‘imperfect’ interiors - the ones most of us have - can be improved if not transformed, and all it really takes is a shake-up in our attitude.

“Most people I know have a long list of reasons why their home isn’t perfect,” says interiors stylist Emily Henson, author of Life Unstyled: How To Embrace Imperfection And Create A Home You Love.

“There can be all sorts of reasons for that.

Perhaps they’re renting and can’t make their own mark, there isn’t a lot of cash to spare for decorating, the space is too small or there isn’t enough storage. Actually, few of us feel our home fulfils every need - and let’s be honest, that’s a pretty tall order anyway.”

Instead of whingeing, Henson advises rebelling, by viewing “those spotless, clutter-free interiors” we envy in magazines and blogs as “a bit of a fiction and an unreal fantasy”, and instead revelling in our own style - flaws and all.

“It’s time to celebrate the beauty of imperfect interiors and overhaul your approach, so you see the opportunities rather than the problems. Instead of lamenting the fact you can’t warm yourself by your defunct fireplace, why not fill it with flowers and candles and congratulate yourself on your creativity?” declares Henson, who literally fizzes with energy and positivity.

“It’s all about breaking the rules and finding your own way in the world of interiors. I’ve always liked doing things my own way when it comes to my home, and not concerning myself too much with predictions for next year’s trend, or the right way

12 FEBRUARY 2017

to hang curtains,” she adds. “Many of the home owners I met while writing the book had the guts to dismiss the traditional way of doing things. One couple painted only half a wall, to expose the patina and beauty of the raw plaster above, while another used old museum archive units for storage. They defied convention, and the result was stand-out spaces.”

Most of us have those bugbears - an unsightly tangle of wires under a desk, a fridge plastered with bills and letters from school, a messy pile of books by the bed - but Henson promises “making the most of what you’ve got, a little re-arrangement, including distracting splashes of colour, and upcycling existing items will all help the visual story of your home to be pleasing and interesting”.

“Also, in reality, a home’s never ‘done’ because

“Most of us have those bugbears - an unsightly tangle of wires under a desk, a fridge plastered with bills and letters from school, a messy pile of books by the bed”

Showrooms: 78 & 82 Church Street, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 8DL • Telephone: 01932 856850 • www.whw.co.uk

INSPIRED LIVING

our needs and tastes are always changing,” Henson notes, “so let it evolve, take pleasure in that and you could suddenly realise it’s perfectly suited to you.”

FIX THE FLAWS Here are Henson’s top tips for transforming how you see your ‘imperfect’ home...

Keep a collection of small decorative pots and tins for all the clutter which clogs up surfaces - from coins, batteries and rubber bands, to pens, paper clips and buttons. Once in a while, empty, sort and put away. In the meantime, let it go.

Decoupage is an interesting alternative to painting for bookshelves. Choose pages from books or magazines which you find appeal, wrap the shelves in them, then secure them with PVA glue and varnish for a clean, smooth finish.

It’s so easy to accumulate ‘stuff’ which can be displayed on open shelves or glass-fronted cabinets, but don’t feel you have to have everything on display at once. “I rotate collections as my mood changes and as I acquire new bits, and stash the rest in storage bins.”

Give over one wall to a colourful collection of art.

Ensure the display is cohesive by grouping them by theme, colour or material. Display boxes of crayons, spools of cotton thread, anything which fits your theme, because variety will add life to a collection.

A room with an interesting paint treatment can get away with a multitude of sins - the eye is distracted from the clutter and drawn to whatever inspired paint job you can think up. Make a feature of stairs, which often tend to be overlooked but are generally the first thing you see when you enter a home. Paint in a rainbow of colours and, for extra embellishment, decorate with stickers, from numerals to words. Alternatively, spray paint the legs of a stool or chair, or create an intricate design on a blank wall.

Refresh jaded furniture by taking it to a local car body shop, which can give it a spray in a jiffy. This will cover chips or damage and give an up-lift to an old piece that might have been destined for the junk yard.

If you’re in a rented home where decorating’s not allowed, give a lift to a dull wall by suspending a single length of wallpaper with an eye-catching design or pattern. Alternatively, wallpaper a large piece of plywood and lean up against a wall, perhaps behind a sofa or bed, for an appealing focal point.

Every home - including children’s rooms - should have an area to tack up anything and everything which inspires, from photos and postcards, to cuttings from magazines or fabric swatches. They’ll offer a snapshot glimpse of your 14 FEBRUARY 2017

likes. Use a white board or cork board, or paint a square on a wall to designate an area - simply measure an area, mark the outline in masking tape and then paint within.

Wooden crates can be turned into super storage solutions, if given a light sanding and sprayed with paint. Choose bright primary colours for impact, and ramp up the colour by painting the floor, a cheap and easy way to conceal scuffed wood or outdated tiles.

In this disposable age, where the lifespan of furniture is getting shorter and shorter, anything we can save from landfill is a bonus. “Creativity before consumption - the pleasure of making something new from something old - gives me huge satisfaction and personalises my home, as I have genuinely unique pieces. In homes I’ve visited, I’ve seen brilliant chunky shelves made from old wooden planks, pendants created by layering decorative papier mache over old metal pendants, which have been left to dry and removed to reveal a distinctive new shade.”

Life Unstyled: How To Embrace Imperfection And Create A Home You Love by Emily Henson, photography by Debi Treloar, is published by Ryland Peters & Small, priced £19.99. Available now.

Introducing KAELO

INSPIRED LIVING

16 FEBRUARY 2017

T

he Ice Age is finally over. Exquisite champagnes and fine wines have finally been bestowed with their own engineered masterpiece; Kaelo - a ground-breaking innovation for the world of luxury living.

Designed and handmade in England, Kaelo reimagines the antiquated fuss of ice buckets for the 21st Century, by offering a completely dry and instant method of serving champagne and fine wines. As such, Kaelo has been heralded as the revolutionary must-have for luxury interiors and the modern wine connoisseur.

Until now, cumbersome buckets, melting ice and dripping bottles have had to be tolerated in even the most prestigious environments. As well as this, and potentially overlooked by many, the serving temperature of your expensive champagne and wine is dictated by the bottle’s surface contact with ice: too much and the refined aromas and flavours are numbed, too little and the entire experience is compromised.

Enter the unique and elegant Kaelo.

Kaelo instantly creates an ice-cold, yet perfectly dry environment to maintain the ideal temperature of your finest wines during serving. Each Kaelo is a harmonious communion of precision craftsmanship, intuitive technology and modern design, resulting in a revolutionary method of cooling champagne and fine wines that finally befits their high calibre. Your moments of celebration and enjoyment can now be seamless and uninterrupted.

PATENTED KRYOLUXTM TECHNOLOGY Simply touch any part of the stunning Kaelo bezel… and the hard work is done. The KryoluxTM chamber cools down instantly and your experience begins without any delay.

Personalising your own ambience is effortless.

Scrolling through the beautiful spectrum of

illumination is also controlled via the touch sensitive bezel.

Kaelo’s innovative system ensures it is ice-cold within moments, yet uses less power than a 60watt lightbulb. As no ice is required, no water is ever wasted, saving our increasingly precious global resource.

Due to it’s patented cooling technique, it also means no ozone-harming CFCs are used. How do you turn it off ? You don’t…Kaelo automatically turns itself off when it detects it isn’t being used.

CRAFTSMANSHIP A true ambassador for British engineering, Kaelo was passionately developed over 7 years by London-based designer and founder Kevin Jabou. Committed to revolutionising the outdated ice bucket for the 21st Century, it was Kevin’s relentless pursuit of creating something truly unique and extraordinary, which led to the invention of Kaelo’s patented Kryloux™ technology: the secret component at the heart of this modern lifestyle masterpiece.

Each component of a Kaelo is precision machined from solid blocks of raw material to ensure immaculate quality, unrivalled performance and completely flawless finishing. The super-mirror polished bezel itself is a flawless trophy of labour.

The most critical and intensive part of each Kaelo’s build process, each one is crafted from a 3kg block of stainless steel.

Although handmade in Oxford, Kaelo’s exclusive offering means it is now the new global benchmark for serving the finest wines in the modern era.

Kaelo.co.uk; 0207 870 1115

INSPIRED LIVING

[ fea t u r e ]

home interiors Six style themes to explore

By Sam Wylie-Harris, Press Association

Birdie Metal Table Lamp, £324.90, www. chaplins.co.uk

INDUSTRIAL

FRENCH COUNTRY LIVING

Exposed brick walls, stripped-back floorboards, furniture made from hard-wearing materials such as enamel, aluminium and oak, evoke an edgy, industrial feel that complements monochrome tones and graphic prints. Hipster and contemporary, cast iron dishes, metal work and wire storage will suit the inventory.

Visit the French countryside with bleached wood accessories, cast iron tables, vintage cupboards, a rustic kitchen table, soft furnishings, antique linens, damask tablecloths and Provence-style bed linen. This classic look is calming and never goes out of style.

A SHORE THING

Creating a tropical paradise at home is far quicker - and less stressful and expensive - than booking a long-haul flight. Think lush palms and plants galore - whether the real thing (or you can get some great, zero-maintenance fake ones these days!) in pots around rooms, or in designs on wallpaper, fabrics or in

You don’t need to book a seaside holiday to be near the coast, when you can introduce a few nauticalthemed pieces and a colour palette of blues and corals. Chambray stripes, fish motifs on chinaware, anything with an anchor and rattan lanterns will all flow easily together. This timeless look never loses its charm.

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TOTALLY TROPICAL

Abigail Ahern/EDITION Silver star fish wall hook , £15, www.debenhams.com

“Creating a tropical paradise at home is far quicker - and less stressful and expensive - than booking a long-haul flight

TRIBAL TOUCH Abyss & Habidecor Tropical Bath Mat, £289, www.harrods.com

“The ethereal look taps into our current love affair with all things hygge” Butterfly Home by Matthew Williamson Designer green embroidered floral elephant cushion , £18, www.debenhams.com

artwork. Pink flamingo cushions, pineapple-shaped cocktail shakers (there are still tons of metallic pineapple decos in shops right now), bird print fabrics, grapefruit and citrusy scented candles, and a bamboo peacock chair. Just go wild...

AIRY FAIRY 3-Part Shell Snack Server, Patchi, £350 www.harrods.com

The ethereal look taps into our current love affair with all things hygge (in other words; cosy, comforting and feel-good) while also being light, cool and refreshing. Think tactile textures, pastel hues and a mix of patterns that are elegant and graceful. Using premium materials, such as marble and brass, quilted throws, embroidered cushions and a mix of tableware patterns completes the look.

Travel has never been more popular - and, naturally, it’s influencing our interiors, too. With a mix of Asian, Indian and South American treatments, a vibrant colour palette, embroidered floor cushions, pom-pom-adorned throws, ‘a little something’ from a souk, arts and crafts from various cultures and an ethnic rug can hint at Zanzibar style with a modern, bohemian take. Inspiring, interesting and you can add ‘souvenirs’ as daily reminders of amazing trips you’ve enjoyed.

INSPIRED LIVING

interior luxury world, including their own suppliers in China and India, and specialising in custom-made furnishings for people who want something different, special or simply unique.

‘The library of books and samples are enormous ,and if you can’t find what you are looking for, it probably doesn’t exist!’

The interior design service covers everything, including measuring up, estimating fabric, choosing fabrics, trimmings, blinds, poles and tracks. They also make the curtains and blinds in their workroom at the Epsom shop and provide a professional fitting service. An interior design consultation only costs £50 and if your total order is worth

S

pecialists in curtain fabric, interior design, making up and fitting, Fabric World is a family business that has been established for 40 years, they have two fabric shops in Epsom and Croydon, Surrey. Stocking over 4000 designer fabrics for curtains, blind, soft furnishings and upholstery where their experienced staff will discuss your requirements and advise you on measurements, fabrics, fittings and accessories.

Their expert interior designers offer an excellent personal service covering Surrey and London.

Designers visit your home with a huge range of designer fabric samples and discuss with you curtains, blinds and your tailor made interior design scheme. Also offering a complete fitting service so that your curtains and blinds are fitted to a professional standard.

The Epsom fabric shop has curtain making workrooms where a professional and expert team of curtain makers create all styles of curtains and blinds. They have collectively worked for Fabric World for nearly a century.

Home Consultation Interior Design Service

To make your home really special, a complete home consultation interior design service is offered in Surrey and London. Using mobile design vans, interior Designers will visit your home bringing with them over 1500 samples of designer 20 FEBRUARY 2017

fabrics, 500 samples of wallpaper, paint charts and blind and curtain books so you can touch and feel samples to help you achieve the look that you have always wanted. They share and advise on exclusive curtain, interior design and soft furnishing ideas and listen to your ideas to create your own unique style. Sourcing fabrics from all corners of the

£500 or more the cost is refunded. The Designer works on the curtain and soft furnishing interior design aspects, and also work in partnership with other Designers and Architects who take on complete house renovations and need to outsource to companies such as Fabric World for soft furnishings.

With a wealth of experience they have helped and advised thousands of customers who come back repeatedly!

Epsom: Tel: 01372 723640 15 West Street, Epsom, Surrey, KT18 7RL Opposite Station Approach (parking for 20 cars) Croydon: Tel: 020 8688 6282 6 – 10 Brighton Road, South Croydon, CR2 6AA

INSPIRED LIVING

CREATE A DREAM NURSERY Designing your baby’s nursery is one of the most exciting and memorable projects a parent will do, and is the first step to welcoming your baby into your family.

I

t is important that it is a space of beauty, tranquility but also of practicality. Your nursery has to be functional as well, so before purchasing furniture think about safety and function but also style, the purpose, and the activities that will take place in there.

Besides the obvious sleeping and feeding, consider storage and your lifestyle too. Start by measuring your space as it gives you an informed platform to build on.

Nursery furniture comes in different shapes and sizes

22 FEBRUARY 2017

so you need to take a lot into consideration like alcoves and awkward spaces.

Your taste

To prevent being overwhelmed with the plethora of cot styles, look at your home to determine your personal taste. Are you a city slicker or countryloving? Do you love nature and prefer natural woods or even eco-friendly furniture?

If the rest of your house is sleek and

contemporary for example, there’s no reason why you can’t carry the look into your baby’s room.

With careful thought, the colours, decorations and lighting can please young eyes and grown-up tastes alike. Be inspired by stylish designs and create a space both you and your little one can enjoy.

Stay neutral - If the cot were removed from your nursery, would it still look like a nursery? That’s the ultimate test of creating a stylish room that goes with your home and grows with your child. Painted furniture gives you the flexibility to create a space that really coordinates with the rest of your décor.

Keep it simple

Babies need lots of stuff, but keeping surfaces free from clutter is key to a stylish nursery. Good storage makes sure essentials are tucked out of the way, while wooden flooring allows you to wipe up spills easily. To keep the simple mood, avoid lots of pictures and go for one striking, graphic decal to create an interesting focal point for your baby.

Make it personal

Add personality to your nursery by going beyond predictable character themes. Incorporate treasured family mementos, to create an individual look.

Let there be light - Babies are known to have scant regard for the fact that night-time is really for sleeping, but you can train your little one early on (to an extent…). So getting lighting right is essential – for both of you! You don’t want to blast your baby with 100w at 2am, so make sure you have soft lighting for night-time feeds. You will also need sufficient light by your feeding chair for reading.

Don’t limit your choice to novelty designs: use the same type of floor and table lights you might choose for a living room or master bedroom.

Nursery furniture

The cot tends to carry the bulk of the design so choose that first. Most retailers sell nursery furniture as a collection. This means that you can purchase coordinating pieces like the changing unit, wardrobe, shelving etc. Some companies even supply single and double beds as part of the range so you only need to purchase one item later on and you’ll still have a coordinating bedroom.

If space is limited consider purchasing dual purpose furniture, like changing units that have a removable changing top set atop a chest of drawers.

This gives its use longevity and it carries on being used long after baby outgrows the nursery.

The cot will be the most important purchase in your nursery. You can choose from ‘classic’ and ‘modern’, to ‘vintage’ and it will set the theme for the whole room. Your choices range from wood or iron, antique, traditional or modern to natural finish, painted or eco-friendly.

A rocking chair gives you yet another opportunity to add a design touch to your nursery. Functionality should come first, with design being a priority as you want this purchase to be enjoyed by you and your little one for the years ahead.

If the chair you love does not fit your design story, why not have some fun with upholstery to make it work for you?

Baby Bed linen

Nursery bed linen again comes in many shapes, styles and sizes and the same principle applies that we use to choose furniture. Traditional bed linen are quite easily identified, frills, checks, florals, etc. while contemporary baby bedding will be again rather fuss-free and simple. Think neutrals, geometric patterns and crisp predictable styles.

For a true luxe design, go for bespoke bedding this is where you or your designer can select suitable fabrics in your chosen theme or colour.

“Babies need lots of stuff, but keeping surfaces free from clutter is key to a stylish nursery”

Wall colours

Notice we haven’t talked about wall colours yet.

This is because it is easier to match paint to bedding than the other way round. It is safer to choose your bed linen first because you wouldn’t choose one in a colour you don’t love. Once this is safely done, pick a colour from the bed linen. Go for a soft colour as you’re creating a serene space that you’ll be walking into at 2am in the morning! Plus of course your baby needs a relaxing space.

If your favourite colour is a deep colour and your space is small, tone it down to a softer shade in the same colour palette. Bold colours pull the walls in and make a small space feel smaller. The reverse is also true; lighter colours make the walls recede.

Finishing touches

Now that the mainframe of your nursery is formed, add the finishing touches to your design.

Decorative accessories like a rug, artwork, clocks, etc all place a stamp on your baby’s space.

A mobile hung above the cot are perfect to engage and calm a baby. Take time to select one that communicates your design message, pleasing you as much as your baby!

FEBRUARY 2017 23

HOME &

PROPERTY

– A collection of Surrey and Berkshire’s finest house and garden companies, plus stunning homes for sale in the area – I M A G E : ST E INING E R

H OME & PROPERTY

Why every UK homeowner should know about Permitted Development Rights

I

n England Permitted Development Rights (often referred to as “PD” Rights) where they are still in force, or not already all used up, allow UK homeowners to improve and extend their homes without the need to seek a specific planning permission.

However, don’t get too excited, as many more modern properties have had their PD Rights withdrawn retrospectively either by their Local Council or by the Developer who built their home in a deal done by them with your Local Planning Department in order for them to be able to build more houses on the same site.

Also previous owners have sometimes already extended a property to the maximum allowed

116 FEBRUARY 2017

under Permitted Development. For example semi-detached and terraced houses can put a conservatory on the rear of their homes with a projection from the rear wall of up to 3m if the PD rights are intact. If not, then a planning application will be required before one can be legally built.

Before even replacing windows, doors, adding a porch, conservatory or an extension, it is wise to check that you can do so on your particular property even if you own it outright.

For example if your property is a flat in a residential block of flats or in a conservation area or area of outstanding natural beauty, or is a Listed Building, you are not legally permitted to replace any windows or doors or add any structure without

“Previous owners have sometimes already extended a property to the maximum allowed under Permitted Development”

first obtaining planning permission.

This may come as a bit of a shock to flat owners, as even if their Management Company organise the replacement windows, they are not allowed to do so without getting planning approval from the Local Council first.

However UK homeowners (excluding flat owners unfortunately) can perform certain types of work without needing to apply for planning permission.

These are called “permitted development rights”.

They derive from a general planning permission granted not by the local authority but by the British Parliament. Sadly as just mentioned, the permitted development rights which apply to many common projects for houses do not apply to flats, maisonettes or other buildings. Similarly, commercial properties have different permitted development rights to dwellings.

In some areas of the country, known generally as ‘designated areas’, permitted development rights are more restricted, such as in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or a World Heritage Site or in a Conservation Area. If this is the case for your property you will need to apply for planning permission for certain types of work which do not need an application in other areas. There are also different additional requirements if the property is a listed building.

The UK Governments Planning Portal’s general advice is that you should contact your local planning authority and discuss your proposal before any work begins. This may or may not be a free service. Your Local Authority will be able to inform you of any reason why the development may not be permitted and if you need to apply for planning permission for all or part of the work. Sometimes local authorities require written submissions before being prepared even to look at a potential project, and many now charge a fee to ask them such questions.

It is also worth noting that your local planning authority may have removed some of your permitted development rights by issuing an ‘Article 4’ direction. This will mean that you have to submit a planning application for work which normally does not need one (as is the case in some areas of Welwyn Garden City in Hertfordshire for example). Article 4 directions are made when the character of an area of acknowledged importance would be threatened by over development. They are most common in conservation areas. You will

“The UK Governments Planning Portal’s general advice is that you should contact your local planning authority and discuss your proposal before any work begins”

probably know if your property is affected by such a direction, but do check with your local planning authority if you are not sure.

There are an awful lot of rules surrounding permitted development, planning and Building Regulations if you are looking to make additions or changes to your property, so it is sensible to partner with firms experienced in dealing with these matters so that you can be as sure as you can the advice you are given is accurate. For example glass extensions such as conservatories or orangeries (including previous extensions) and other buildings must not exceed 50% of the curtilage of your whole property. This limit includes outbuildings. Also as a general rule homeowners are not permitted to build an extension onto the front of their house if it faces a road without planning permission, as usually local authorities expect extensions to be put on the rear of a property.

Homeowners in England are permitted to add a porch (if not in a Conservation Area etc.) up to a maximum of 3 square metres (external measurements) under Permitted Development, so it really is very important before buying a house or before making changes to a house to establish what PD Rights are still intact (if any). The bottom line is that if there are insufficient Permitted Development Rights to undertake the project you have in mind, you will need planning permission, and unless it would be deemed a temporary structure (like a conservatory), you will also probably need to submit a Building Regulations Application.

The most a homeowner can extend beyond the original back wall of their house without planning under Permitted Development is 3 metres if it is a terraced or semi-detached property, or 4 metres if their property is detached. It is not possible therefore to have a conservatory on the back of an extension that projects beyond these limits without planning permission.

To find out more about the potential options on your particular property, along with free professional advice, why not ask family owned and run independent double glazing manufacturers and installers Hazlemere Windows for a free no-obligation consultation with one of their experienced experts by calling 01344 989938 or visit www.hazlemere.co.uk FEBRUARY 2017 117

H OME & PROPERTY

BEAUTIFUL KITCHENS FROM

T

he third-generation family firm has been dealing with materials, forms and design for more than 80 years. This combination of tradition and craftsmanship is the basis for a their, timeless kitchen architecture, which combines elegant materials with a selfcontained design language and intelligent functionality.

Kitchens with a strong character and lasting perfection are created with responsibility and passion at the company’s headquarters in St. Martin, Upper Austria, where Steininger was founded

ROCK

A joint design by Martin Steininger and Alberto Minotti, is a kitchen archipelago consisting of four different blocks, which can be made from a range of the finest stone materials. ROCK can be implemented either as a bold, monolithic island solution, or as an unusual standalone concept comprising four cubes - based on Donald Judd’s art installation “Minimal Myth” - with a few centimetres spacing to each other.

Every kitchen is unique - even the inside is individually designed for each custome.. Drawers made of stainless steel and a magnetic, double hand-stitched, felt base are divided up using magnetic dividers and equipped with a wide variety of functional modules.

All parts are made from 6 mm thin natural stone with a 45° edge. Featuring a special, patented handle, the kitchen blocks appear to be one single piece.

Pure

PURE The monolithic kitchen island PURE impresses with clear and precise style. The integrated solid wood table and stainless steel revolving herbs bed are not only functional elements, but also allow PURE’s surface materials to come alive – particularly in combination with concrete. The 8 mm thin concrete is heat-resistant and food-safe.

We developed a procedure that allowed us to make the conrete so thin that it was light enough but not brittle, and maintain its interesting surface texture with fine cracks and bubbles“, says Steininger. What the unusual outer skin of the kitchen promises, is also delivered in the top-quality interior, made of stainless steel and the finest wood.

As with all STEININGER kitchens, reduction down to the essentials and visual order are part of the concept.

Slim

SLIM The elegant kitchen island SLIM fully follows the trend of using extraordinary materials in the kitchen. The unit block and cupboard element are fully clad in anodised aluminium. Austrian workmanship comes into effect in the carefully crafted wine racks and the unusual sliding mechanism of SLIM. Steininger exercised its usual quality in getting down to work on the new SLIM. The aluminium parts are processed with engineering precision. The gap dimensions of the fronts match, in their precision, those found in vehicle manufacturing. To replace and adjust the aluminium parts, Steininger used a patented procedure for the first time to enable an even more precise execution.

Thanks to the new processing method, the feel of the aluminium parts is especially pleasant, smooth and silky. “The aim was to produce an even more robust and long-lasting surface. The outer skin of the new SLIM consists of 3 mm thick, massive aluminium. With the newly developed folding technology,we can use it on flat surfaces and fold around corners”, says Steininger.

THE DETAILS

Rock

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Showroom in London 104-11, Goswell Road, 4th Floor, London, EC1V7DH ••••• london@steininger-masterpieces.com Opening hours: Mo – Fr 9am – 5.30pm T 0044 (0) 207 490 74 38 M 0044 (0) 748 450 70 78 www.steininger-masterpieces.com

H OME & PROPERTY

Getting Continental in the Bedroom

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ost Brexit vote, it may seem a trifle odd to talk about European tastes, however we’re intrinsically linked to the continent by more than just a continental shelf and a thin band of bluegreen water. Within our shores are entrenched attitudes towards the very essence of being European, which are much more about style and lifestyle, than political persuasion.

Just glance at our high streets with cafés spilling onto the pavement, fashionable people dining al fresco, drinking espresso and enjoying petits fours, to appreciate we’re more European than we might first consider, however taking a deeper view of our own homes, it may surprise some to understand how much European style we surround ourselves with and ultimately take for granted, as it’s become virtually innate after centuries of influence.

Head2Bed is an online bedroom emporium that understands the demand for European styling in the home, with beds, wardrobes, mattresses and accessories that complement one another, have European design built-in, as well as European manufacturing quality and safety.

Head2Bed’s bed ranges are designed and made in either Switzerland or Italy, under the Hasena, Quarrata Qualita’ or Veneran Italia brands, to the highest manufacturing standards. Wardrobes are by Stylform (Germany), luxury mattresses by Yatsan (Turkey), Relaxsan

(Italy) and Concept Memory (Great Britain!).

The Beds • The Hasena range is vastly flexible, allowing an almost infinite combination of headboards, frames and legs, with materials in many types of solid wood, laminate and glass, and upholstery in leather or fabric, meaning an individual style can be achieved.

• The Quarrata Qualita’ range of beds is selected carefully to provide only the most sumptuous designs, with deep upholstery and incredible build quality, putting a very modern twist on some very traditional manufacturing methods.

• Veneran Italia is a relative newcomer to the range, yet it’s been a phenomenal seller this year, with incredible, sleek styling, floating effects and subtle built-in lighting. Even their laminate woods are solid, using first choice timber from sustainable sources, actually sourcing wood from the same trunk!

Trust Head2bed’s customer service is the kind of service one should expect from a company selling mid-to-high-end products, with personal contact from start to end. Any enquiries are answered swiftly and in detail, so there’s never any ambiguity over delivery date or price.

In fact, Head2bed is constantly reviewed by customers via the Trustpilot review website, with ratings at 9.4, which is in the top 20% of reviewed furniture companies in the UK. Also, all beds and wardrobes come with two years’ manufacturers’ warranty, with mattresses having up to 15 years. All bed deliveries in this area are by two-person, white-glove service, with installation included in the price. The delivery/installation team will even remove all the packaging THE DETAILS You can see the entire range at head2bed.co.uk, search for contemporary beds on Google, or call on 0115 870 0901.

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H OME & PROPERTY

We go through the roof, so you don’t have to.

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s house prices continue to rise and homeowners strive to find more value within their property, space is currently somewhat of a commodity. With ‘Improve, don’t move!’ becoming the loudest thought currently running through homeowner’s minds, it is important to know that just simply having your loft space insulated and boarded properly can add nearly £3,000 of value. Having a full loft conversion on the other hand, can add on average a massive 21% on to your home’s value, according to the Nationwide March 2015 House Price Index.

The Loft Access Company, with over 14 years of specialised experience dealing with everything related to the loft space, has been adding value to homes through London and home counties long enough to know that the benefits do truly outweigh the costs.

Each enquiry received first involves a non-obligatory home survey. Whether it be for a simple loft-hatch enlarging or for a twobedroom and en-suite conversion, the survey involves assessment of capability and which areas need the most improvement. With a continuously growing team of installers and administrators, The Loft Access Company can therefore either create clean, dust-free and bright storage solutions in the home by establishing safe loft spaces, or the perfect extra habitable living area.

As many may know, any expansion work done on a home can get complicated, not to mention expensive.

The full Architectural Design service provided by The Loft Access Company, however, means that everything from the positioning of windows, to the understanding of structural regulations in place can be handled smoothly and efficiently. This service also includes a 3D design of your new loft, as well as a 3D walkthrough video sent straight to your inbox.

Based in Windsor, The Loft Access Company are FENSA registered, with the full seal of approval from the Guild of Master Craftsmen, as well as certified VELUX Window installers. So, from performing balancing acts atop of foot stools, each customer can have peace of mind that their new Three-Piece Timber Loft Ladder will go the distance with 10 Years Guarantee.

If you would like to find out The Loft Access Company can improve your loft space, please call them today to discover how you can add value to your home today. Also make sure to keep an eye out for their trade stand in at the local markets and community events!

“Simply having your loft space insulated and boarded properly can add nearly £3,000 of value”

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Dukes House, 5 High Street, Windsor, Berks, SL4 1LD www.theloftaccesscompany.com 01753 840485

H OME & PROPERTY

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A unique development of 10 stylish 1 & 2 bedroom apartments Set within a gated development with allocated parking and with lift access to all floors. These contemporary apartments provide a luxury specification and desirable location, within walking distance to Claygate Station meaning you can reach London Waterloo in less than 30 minutes.

Prices from £475,000 Show home open Saturday & Sunday 10.00am—16.00pm To view call or email: 0208 390 8181 Surbiton@barnardmarcus.co.uk 94 Claygate Hare Lane Claygate Surrey KT10 0RB

LOVE H OMELOC & PROPERTY AL

Windsor Grey Place destined to be a front runner all age levels, notably The International School, The Marist, Charters, Lambrook and LVS (Ascot).

Edward Shaw, office head of Knight Frank’s Ascot branch, comments: “The unique selling point for Windsor Grey Place has to be its proximity to Ascot High Street, an area which is excitingly going through regeneration and has plans to become double-sided in the near future. It is unusual to get beautifully finished townhouses that close to the town centre.

“Each property comes with its own quirks – no two are the same which makes for a good sense of community within the gated development”

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n exclusive collection of detached homes, inspired by her Majesty’s chosen horses, has been unveiled in Ascot this month.

Award-winning developer Shanly Homes has launched Windsor Grey Place – eight wellappointed properties less than a mile away from the world famous sporting venue, Ascot Racecourse.

The development of seven five-bedroom and one four-bedroom properties has been individually designed for modern families. Each home boasts spacious Siemens integrated kitchens with open plan layouts ideal for family dining and entertaining.

Most homes also have separate dining rooms and living rooms. Every property has generously proportional master bedrooms which benefit from ensuites and walk-in dressing rooms.

Located on a private road off of the London Road, Windsor Grey Place is a five minute walk from the bustling Ascot High Street, which offers an array of amenities including high-end boutiques, restaurants and pubs. The local schools on offer are exceptional, with a high standard of education for 130 FEBRUARY 2017

“Each property comes with its own quirks – no two are the same which makes for a good sense of community within the gated development.”

In an area synonymous with British horseracing, Ascot is a bookie’s favourite for commuter families, with direct rail links to London Waterloo in just over fifty minutes from nearby Ascot Station.

Windsor Grey Place is less than a mile away from Ascot train station and has good road connections with easy access to the M3 (Junction 3) and the M25 (Junction 13) leading to Heathrow airport.

Windsor Grey Place is surrounded by excellent sporting and leisure facilities, with Sunningdale and the distinguished Wentworth golf courses within a few miles drive. Fantastic family days out can be enjoyed at Windsor Great Park which offering stunning walking and horse-riding routes.

Prices at Windsor Grey Place range from £1,550,000 to £1,700,000. To register interest and more information, phone 01483 564660 or visit www.shanlyhomes.com.